James "Jim" Michael Roberts

Jim was born in Abington, Pennsylvania, the fourth of Robin & Mary Roberts’ boys. On January 19, 1977, he and his father moved to Temple Terrace, Florida, ahead of the rest of the family so Jim could enroll in school. They were surprised to wake up on their first morning in Florida to snowfall – an unforgettable welcome to their new home.

Jim attended King High School, where he formed many lifelong friendships. He played both basketball and baseball and graduated in 1979. Later that year, he enrolled at the University of South Florida, playing catcher and first baseman with his father as his head coach. He earned a degree in Finance in 1983 and later completed his Master of Business Administration at USF in 1991.

After college, Jim signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers and played two seasons with their minor league affiliate, the Vero Beach Dodgers. In 1984, he traded in his baseball uniform for a business suit and began his banking career with First Florida Bank in Tampa.

That same year, he married his wife, Christie (Williams) Roberts. They shared 41 wonderful years of marriage and raised two children together.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Ann (Kalnes) Roberts, and his father, Robin Evan Roberts. He is survived by his wife, Christie, his son, Curtis; his daughter, Jennifer (Ryan McCaffrey); and his adored grandson, Robin Michael McCaffrey; three brothers, Robin, Jr. (Debby) , Dan (Leslie) , and Rick (Sharon).

After 39 years in banking, Jim retired from Republic Bank. He cherished his retirement years – spending time with friends at Outback, enjoying cigars, and playing golf at Temple Terrace Golf and Country Club. Life was good!

There was only one charitable concern that Jim insisted on supporting, he loved golf and sports in general. For those who wish to honor him, contributions to the Gary and Donna Koch Family Foundation would make him smile.