James Edward "Robbie" Roberson, age 87, of Gadsden, Alabama passed away on Sunday January 26, 2020. Robbie was born in Gadsden on December 23, 1932. He was a graduate of Gadsden High School, Class of 1950.He joined the U.S. Air Force at age 17 and served four years, one year, 1951-1952 he was in Korea. Robbie worked for Republic Steel, LTV, and Gulf State Steel for 43 years. He was a member of Local 2176 United Steelworkers of America serving in four different positions; the last six years as President. He was also the President of the North East Alabama Labor Council, served as District Vice President of Alabama AFL-CIO, and attended 12 Constitutional Conventions of the United Steelworkers of America. Robbie served on three committees in the city of Gadsden: Board of Commissioners of the Gadsden Housing Authority 1997-2007, Industrial Development Board of Etowah County, and City of Gadsden Industrial Development Board. He was honored to receive the 1996 Spirit of Citizenship Award.
Robbie was a member of VFW Post 8600 for 55 years. He was a member of New Faith Community Church and had most recently attended Carnes Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by the love of his life Alma Hendricks Roberson; parents John (Ed) Roberson and Lillie Bishop Roberson; sister Margaret Sue Roberson Ozment; brother Johnny A. Roberson; sister in law Diane Dupree Roberson; brother in law Billy Ozment; sons Mark Alan Roberson, James Paul (J.P.) Roberson; and nephew Christian (Chris) Roberson .
He is survived by his children Teresa and John Garrard and David Roberson; Grandchildren Kristi Roberson Nettles, Rachel Roberson Clegg, and Zack Roberson; Great Grandchildren Thomas Clegg, Abbagail Clegg, Gracie Nettles, Aubrey Ella Roberson; sister and her husband Linda and Don Hollrah; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Special thanks to all his caregivers, including Nan Boyd, Sarah Vance, Pam Thomas, Barbara Dickens, Sue Yarborough.
A visitation for Robbie will be held Thursday, January 30, 2020 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Collier Butler Funeral Home, followed by graveside service at Crestwood Cemetery at 1:00 PM. Rev. Bill Abbot will officiate. Collier Butler Funeral Home will direct services.
Pallbearers will be family and friends.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.collier-butler.com for the Roberson family.
