Mrs. Vera Lee Roberts

Vera Lee Roberts passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. With her loved ones by her side, she was carried from this life into the loving arms of her Lord.

Vera was born to James and Faye Bullard in 1947 and grew up in Memphis, surrounded by a close-knit community and dozens of cousins who were like cherished siblings throughout her life. She was a proud graduate of Kingsbury High School (Class of 1965) and earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Memphis State University in 1970, often as the only woman in her classes. She later earned her Master’s degree in Education, stepping into a God-given calling that became a lifelong passion and a career devoted to leaving a lasting mark on every student she taught.

For over 40 years, she joyfully taught middle and high school science, spending much of her career at Lincoln Jr. High and White Station Middle School, where she deeply loved her students and her fellow teachers. She poured her heart and soul into the classroom, helping shape the minds, hearts, and lives of countless students. Years later, many would still seek her out to say, “Mrs. Roberts, you were my favorite teacher!”—a reflection of the lasting impact she made. In Memphis, it was rare to go anywhere without someone recognizing her, and she treasured every reunion with former students, remembering each one and celebrating the connections she built.

In her later years, she continued to share her passion for education by mentoring student teachers at the University of Memphis, helping to inspire and guide the next generation of educators—an extension of the legacy she so faithfully built over a lifetime.

Never one to take herself too seriously, she lived with a contagious sense of humor and lightheartedness that drew others to her. Her deeply held faith guided and anchored her, giving her the freedom to face the future without fear and always with an unwavering strength. She was a treasured friend, a beloved Mom, and an adoring Nana.

Vera is preceded in death by her parents, James and Faye Bullard, and her daughter, Beth Markham Crowder. She is survived by her husband of 43 years, William “Billy” Roberts, children James Markam (Sharon) and Kelly Roberts VanCleve (Andy), her 8 precious grandchildren, 1 great-grandson, and a host of dear family members and lifelong friends