John M. Roberts

John Marion Roberts, 81, passed away peacefully after a lifetime spent in the Kingsport, Tennessee area--a place he loved and never wished to leave. Born in Jonesboro, TN on February 16th, 1944, and transitioned from earth to heaven on November 29th, 2025. John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Frances Thacker Roberts; his parents John and Zella Roberts; sisters Wanda Hickman and Phyllis Epps; brothers Larry Roberts and Jerry Roberts; and several brothers and sisters- in -law.

He is survived by his children, Penny (Greg) Simcox and Michael (Tina) Roberts; grandchildren Kristyn (Joe) Page, John (Sam) Simcox, Alex (Kiara) Roberts and Isabella Roberts; and great-grandchildren Zaiden, Zara, Boston, Kingston, Maverick and Morgan, all of whom brought him immense joy.

A proud Vietnam veteran, John honorably served his country in the United States Army at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii. Following his service, he worked for many years at JP Stevens until his retirement. He was of the Apostolic faith and a devoted member of Christian Life Center, where he found purpose, fellowship, and community. John had a gift for working with his hands--always tinkering with lawn mowers and cars, always fixing, improving, or inventing something. He loved visiting flea markets and getting a 'good deal', traveling whenever he could, and most of all, sharing laughter. Known for his playful sense of humor, he delighted in a good joke and was always a good sport when one was played on him. John will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his service to his county, his faith, and the lighthearted joy he brought to those around him. His legacy lives in the many lives he touched.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, December 2, 2025, from 5:00 P.M. until 6:45 P.M. at Christian Life Center in Kingsport. A funeral service will follow at 7:00 P.M. with Pastor Jeremy Damesworth officiating. The family will be assisted by Sullivan County Sheriff's office honor guard at the church. The Committal service will be held Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. in East Lawn Memorial Park's Chapel of Memories where military honors will be rendered by the United States Army National Guard Honors Team and the American Legion. Interment will be private in East Lawn Memorial Park.

John Simcox, Alex Roberts, Eric Wilkins, Butch Wilkins, Caleb Dean, Boston Pickel, and Kingston Simcox will serve as pallbearers. Nephews will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Flowers will be appreciated or memorial contributions in John's honor and memory can be made to the Christian Life Center Building Fund, 2401 N John B Dennis Hwy, Kingsport, TN, 37660.

East Lawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park is honored to serve the family of Mr. John Roberts.