Edward "Eddie" Tarpeh Roberts

Edward Tarpeh “Eddie” Roberts, 77, of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away on February 5, 2026. Born on December 28, 1948, in Monrovia, Liberia, he was the son of the late Samuel and Victoria Roberts (née Duncan).

Edward was educated in Liberia at St. Patrick’s Elementary School and CWA High School before traveling to the United States on a soccer scholarship to Ohio University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Management in 1973. A gifted athlete, he played for Mighty Barolle Football Club and the Liberian National Team before becoming one of Ohio University’s most decorated soccer players. He was a two‑time All‑American and was inducted into the Ohio University Hall of Fame.

Edward spent much of his professional life in Cleveland, Ohio, working in retail sales management and later as a case manager serving children and families. A man of deep faith, he was a devoted Methodist and a member of Orange Grove Missionary Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents and several siblings. He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Etmonia Cooper‑Roberts; his children Miketta, Mietta, Montee, and Ernie Roberts; his bonus daughters Llewenella Dixon, Janelle Hawthorne, and Davreen Dixon; his grandchildren and great‑grandchildren; his siblings; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 28th, 2026 at Orange Grove Missionary Baptist Church, 505 East End Ave, Durham, NC 27703, with viewing at 9:00 a.m. and service at 10:00 a.m.

Livestream: Orange Grove Missionary Baptist Church ( https://www.youtube.com/@OGMBCMedia )

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