James Edward Roberts, Jr. ("Ed")
James Edward Roberts, Jr. ("Ed")
James Edward Roberts, Jr., lovingly known as Ed, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026, in Branson, Missouri, at the age of 80.
Ed was born on July 20, 1946, in Knoxville, Tennessee, to James Edward Roberts, Sr. ("Jim") and Lorah Ruth Roberts ("Ruth"). He grew up with a natural curiosity and aptitude for mathematics and problem-solving that would shape both his career and his many hobbies throughout his life.
He earned his bachelor’s degree from San Diego State College (now University) and went on to enjoy a distinguished 55-year career as a Land Development Civil Engineer & Real Estate Broker. Ed approached his work with intelligence, precision, and dedication, earning the respect of both his colleagues and clients alike.
On June 20, 1970, Ed married the love of his life, Deborah Claire Roberts ("Debby"). Together they built a home centered on faith, family, service, and adventure, sharing 56 wonderful years of marriage. During their life together, they lived in several locations throughout California, Colorado, and Missouri before making their final home in Hollister, Missouri, enjoying the beauty of the Ozarks.
One of the greatest chapters of their lives came when Ed and Debby answered the Lord’s call to serve as missionaries to the Philippines with the Assemblies of God from 1985 to 1987. Using his experience as a Civil Engineer, he was a founding member of the Baguio City campus of the Far East Advanced School of Theology (FEAST), now known as the Asia Pacific Theological Seminary (APTS). Their years of missionary service left a legacy and reflected Ed's quiet faithfulness and servant's heart.
Ed loved learning and had an exceptional analytical and technical mind. He had a longstanding fascination with computers, often building computers from scratch to better understand how things worked. Whether troubleshooting technology, repairing his vehicles himself, or tackling a difficult engineering project, Ed had an incredible eye for detail and found satisfaction in solving problems.
When he wasn't working, Ed enjoyed the outdoors. He loved camping and fishing, and one of their primary reasons he and Debby chose to settle in the Ozarks was the area's beautiful scenery, abundant fishing and wonderful entertainment. He was also known as an enthusiastic gun hobbyist and, much to the amusement of family, a collector of reading glasses, flashlights, tools, and countless other "treasures" that always had a purpose.
Above all else, Ed deeply cherished his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with Debby, his sons, and his grandchildren. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and VERY proud grandfather! He also held a special place in his heart for their beloved Shih Tzu, Tiffany (affectionately known as their "favorite child.")
Ed is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Deborah (“Debby”) Roberts; his eldest son, Timothy ("Tim") Roberts and wife Amber, along with their eight children—four sons and four daughters with the oldest two married; his middle son, Travis ("TJ") Roberts and wife Jill, and their three children—two sons and one daughter; and his youngest son, Troy Roberts and wife Chelsea. Ed is also survived by his brother, Mike Roberts and wife Lois, along with Debby’s 3 brothers and their respective families.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents, James Edward Roberts, Sr. and Lorah Ruth Roberts, as well as Debby’s parents, Jack & Dorothy Van Cleave.
A celebration of Ed's life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Branson First Assembly of God, 399 State Highway T, Branson, Missouri 65616. A BBQ reception will follow the service, and all who knew & loved Ed are welcome!
Ed leaves behind a legacy of faith, integrity, hard work, quiet wisdom, and unwavering love for his family. He lived a life of purpose, served others faithfully, and found joy in both life's greatest moments and its simplest pleasures. He will be deeply loved, sincerely missed, and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know him.