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Joseph ROBERTS Obituary

ROBERTS, Jr., Joseph L. Rev. Dr. Joseph L. Roberts Jr., Pastor Emeritus of Ebenezer Baptist Church, went from labor to reward on Sunday February 15, 2015 at his home in Fayetteville, GA. Willie A. Watkins Riverdale Chapel 770-909-8800

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Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution from Feb. 16 to Feb. 17, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Joseph ROBERTS

Not sure what to say?





claudia cian

November 2, 2015

I had the honor and privilege of meeting Dr. Joseph Roberts when I relocated to Atlanta, Georgia some year ago..just learned of his passing. My sincere sympathy to his entire family. I will always cherish the privilege of having met him ....one of the most intellectual spiritual human beings I have ever known. May his soul rest in peace...one of God's gifts to humanity.

Reginald Cleveland

March 30, 2015

Pastor Roberts will truly be missed. He always brought excellence to the pulpit.

March 16, 2015

To the Roberts Family,
I offer my sincere condolences for the passing of a great man, Reverend Dr. R. Joseph Jr. I had the distinct pleasure of working with Reverend Roberts to plan the kick-off of the fund development program that launched Ebenezer Horizon Development program. Dr. Roberts was a GIANT among men. His legacy will continue to live on in our Hearts,at Ebenezer,and in the great City of Atlanta. May Heaven smile upon you.Be Blessed!

Respectfully,

Barbara J. Easter-Coleman

Veronica Owens

March 5, 2015

Thank you Pastor Roberts for the sermons that I will never forget, thank you for the music that you loved, thank you for the Bible study where I learned so much, thank you for the time you would take just to listen but most of all I thank God for having known you. I will miss you. I love you Pastor Roberts.

March 4, 2015

Offering my deepest condolences. ( Ps 46 : 1 )

Nia

March 3, 2015

Lives of GREAT men all remind us..our lives , too, can be sublime and in passing, leave behind us, footprints in the sands of time, fare well to a MIGHTY spirit!

February 28, 2015

May the God of all comfort be with you during this difficult time.

February 27, 2015

I hope that reading psalm 119:105 may help you find comfort

Rosalyn Allen

February 27, 2015

May God continue to be with your family. Weeping may endure for a night but joy come in the morning

Carolyn Brickhouse-Cohen

February 27, 2015

May Our LORD and Savior keep you this Family uplifted and strong

Debra Killingswort

February 27, 2015

Some may see this as a sad time; but we must realize that God allowed a true servant to visit us for a season such as this. I was a watch care member at Ebenezer during my stay in Atlanta. The Elliotts were my sponsors and they are all now present at the table with Dr. Roberts. May God bless you during this time and be at peace that your love one is at rest.

irene rev.21:4

February 27, 2015

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

T T

February 26, 2015

He sounds like a remarkable man. He was God-fearing, humble, and approachable. May God continue to bestow love,grace,and comfort in this time of bereavement.

Debby Patterson

February 26, 2015

I am so sorry for your loss. May God bless you and your family during this very difficult time.

Charles Douglas Edwards

February 24, 2015

We would like to offer our sympathy and condolences to the family,friends and fans of Rev. Joseph L.Roberts Jr.

He was a good man who tried to help mankind.

Rest In Peace (RIP) !!!

Charles Douglas Edwards
Supervisor - Learning Resource Center
Frederick Douglass Hall
Morehouse College

February 24, 2015

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Df

February 24, 2015

My condolence to your family at this time of lost may the God of all comfort be with you at this time of sarrow 2 Cor 1:2:4

February 24, 2015

I am so sorry for your loss...May God comfort you at this most difficult time. Because God comforts all h mourning ones. Isiah 61:2

Nia

February 23, 2015

A MIGHTY spirit has gone home!

Justice Leah Sears

February 23, 2015

I was really saddened to hear of the death of Rev. Roberts. He was an extraordinary man. There are many in this nation who will mourn deeply his passing as his was a life of faith, service, love, compassion and excellence. He will be missed. May he rest in peace.

Cheryl Duncan-Gill

February 23, 2015

Dr, Joseph L. Roberts was my pastor and mentor. I was saddened to hear of his passing. He cared about his congregation and was an exceptional leader. I remember that he took time out of his busy schedule to visit me in the hospital and encourage me during a rough time in my life. I moved from Atlanta in the late 90's but I made sure I returned to celebrate his retirement. It was a wonderful occassion to celebrate his legacy and impact on so many people. I am grateful that he touched my life.

Carol Obierika

February 22, 2015

Blessings and my deepest sympathy to the Roberts family. I would love to thank you for sharing the wonderful home going service video with us. To Cynthia, my former Fulton County co-worker. May God bless you and strengthen your heart.

Carol Obierika

Josie Scales

February 22, 2015

So sorry for the loss of Dr. Roberts. I will truly miss him. He always greet me with a smile. I really enjoyed his sermons while I lived in Atlanta, Ga. I am was member of his church for 15 years, I left because of Morris Brown College. I am Professor at Tennessee State University.
Dr. J. Scales

E. JoAnn Bacon

February 22, 2015

So sorry for the loss of Rev. Roberts. His was a life well lived. My thoughts are with his family.

February 21, 2015

Mrs. Esther Roberts,
I was saddened to hear of the death of Pastor Emeritus Joseph Roberts. He was loved by many. My hope is that you will feel the comforting touch of the many prayers that are going out to you at this time.

Lillie Hamilton, Augusta, GA

February 21, 2015

To The Roberts Family,
I will miss Dr. Roberts' wonderful, warm and caring personality. He always greeted me with a smile and a kiss on the cheek. He played an important role in the lives of my family. He was available during illness, marriages, baby dedications and funerals. All services were conducted with a caring heart Thank you Mrs. Roberts and the family for sharing him.

Lois Dunlap, Stone Mountain, GA

Arlisa Rayford

February 21, 2015

Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow,looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow. Hold tight to memories for comfort,lean on your friends for strength,and always remember how much you are cared about. Your life was full of loving deeds, forever thoughtful of our special needs,today and tomorrow, my whole life through, we will always love and cherish you. You left us so suddenly, your thoughts unknown,you left us memories, we are proud to own. Those who loved can truly tell, the heartache of parting without farewell. Gone yet not forgotten,although we are apart,your spirit lives within us,forever in our hearts. Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Those we love don't go away,they walk beside us every day,unseen, unheard, but always near,still loved, still missed and very dear. In God's care you rest above, in our hearts you rest with love, memories of you are ours to keep,our words are few but our love is deep. Dr. Roberts you were a great man, pastor, mentor and friend to so many. I appreciate you as my pastor from birth into adulthood. My condolences and prayers are with you Ms. Roberts and your family.

Laney Stevenson

February 21, 2015

A True Disciple of Christ; A Brilliant Teacher and A Great Humanitarian who leaves a Great Legacy!

Laney M. Stevenson
Knoxville College Alumni, Class of 1957
Rome, GA

Linda Thomas Phipps

February 21, 2015

With deepest sympathy to the family.

In memory of Mrs. Mellie C. Nowell Thomas.

MRS. MAUDE KING

February 21, 2015

LET THE CHURCH SAY AMEN
I remember the Sunday in 1975 that Pastor Joseph L. Roberts, Jr. came to Ebenezer to preach a trial sermon. Rev. Martin Luther King, Sr. would soon be retiring. That Sunday, Rev. Roberts brought the house down!. He was given a standing ovation that lasted nearly five minutes. I knew at that moment that he would become the next Pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church. I was happy.
For thirty years, my family was privileged to hear this man of God preach and teach us (a rare treat). He was brilliant! He always delivered a message from God. Pastor Joe (as we sometimes called him) never let us down. He left a mighty blueprint for other ministers.
Pastor Roberts spent time with us...we knew he loved us. He shared our happy moments as well as our sad times. He gave us the assurance that everything was going to be alright. "Just trust God," he would say. He was a father to us. He counseled us. He married our sons and daughters. He eulogized our departed loved ones (He didn't leave it to someone else to do). He dedicated our babies. He baptized our children as well as the adults. When we invited him to our homes, he and his sweet wife Jeanne always came whether it was a little party or a big dinner! He put his members first. He took time to hug us. He laughed and cried with us. He chastised us when we needed it. He treated that pulpit as a sacred place.
I thank God that He gave us Pastor Joe for thirty years. When he became Pastor Emeritus, he was still only a phone call away. Now he is in a place where every day is a good day.
On Sunday, February 15, God said "Come on up my good and faithful servant." Our friend and Pastor answered the call. In the words of Andre Crouch "Let The Church Say Amen."

Cynthia Carmichael

February 20, 2015

Rest in Peace Pastor Roberts, I know you would have come to my Dads funeral if you were able, so now you are both in the presence of the Lord. Praise God for the lives of two remarkable men.

FRED E. KING

February 20, 2015

Rev. Joseph L. Roberts, Jr. was a wonderful pastor to all of the Ebenezer family. He loved people and he brought many souls to Christ. He will be missed. Rest in peace my February brother. Let The Church Say Amen

February 20, 2015

We who were fortunate to know Rev. Joseph Roberts as pastor, mentor, friend and beloved brother will miss him. His profound preaching and warm cordial personality kindled a spirit of love and thanksgiving for the meaning of Jesus Christ. To Jean and the family thank you for allowing Pastor Roberts to be a generous messenger from God. His powerful influence on my faith journey is eternal. Let us reflect on the joyful memories for the ministry to which he was called and admirably equipped to serve. I thank God for his legacy and life. Love and sympathy to Jean and the entire family.

Juanita Eldridge, Winston-Salem, NC

Glenn Brown

February 20, 2015

Our family thanks Rev Joseph Roberts for his years of dedicated service as Pastor of the Elmwood United Presbyterian Church in East Orange, N.J. during the 1960's. Your ministry helped all of us grow as Christians.I loved your dynamic sermons and teachings. Some of the many ministries under your pastorate are still flourishing at Elmwood including our Choir and Boy Scout Troop and Pack 8. Thank you for the times you came back to Elmwood for many special events including our recent 40th Anniversary. Our church was happy to be part of your Installation service at Ebenezer Baptist.You were an inspiration to my family and I. May God be with Jean, Cheryl, Cynthia, and your family

February 20, 2015

To the Roberts family: My family lived next door to you in Newark, NJ, Dr. Roberts baptised me. I baby sat for Cheryl and Cynthia when they were babies. Our families loved each other. May God's perfect peace be with each of you. Gertrude Washington Johnson

February 20, 2015

To the Roberts Family:
Deepest Sympathy and Prayers are extended to you during this time of Remembrance of your dear beloved husband, father and grandfather. I remember Rev. Dr. Roberts on his many visits at People's Community Church of Detroit, MI and how I looked forward to hearing his wonderful words from God. A sermon that I have on tape preached at Hartford Memorial Baptist in Detroit, MI - "The Child In Me". It told the story that all of us live within us, the "child in me" that never leaves us. Be blessed with the wonderful memories of who He was and will be with you forever. Thank God for this mighty giant. Carolyn Ford

Patricia Jones

February 20, 2015

Pastor Joe will be truly missed. He set such an example to follow, in and out of the pulpit. His sense of humor was amazing. His level of integrity, impeccable. An awesome human being and preacher.

Catrita Aycock

February 20, 2015

I Thank God for the life and legacy of Dr. Roberts. My Prayers of comfort and strength go out to Mrs. Roberts and the family

February 20, 2015

Dr. Roberts has the warmest soul you will ever know. Thank you Lord for sharing him with us for all these years!

Willie Mays

February 20, 2015

My old friend I miss seeing and talking with you at LA Fitness, we had some interesting conversations.
Rest In Peace my friend

Valerie Lewis

February 20, 2015

Dr. Roberts, I love you and will miss you.

Valerie Lewis

February 20, 2015

WHEN YOU RETIRED FROM EBENEZER MY THOUGHTS OF YOUR WORDS AND TEACHING ON SUNDAY MORNINGS ARE STILL WITH ME. IT'S STILL HARD NOT SEEING AND HEARING YOUR VOICE. I REMEMBER IN MONTCLAIR , NJ AS A YOUNG GIRL MY FAMILY WERE MEMBERS OF ST. PAUL BAPTIST CHURCH IN MONTCLAIR, NJ. I WOULD HEAR PEOPLE TALK ABOUT REV. ROBERTS. I WOULD SNEAK AND COME TO HEAR YOU SPEAK AND LEARN SO MUCH FROM YOU AND YOUR WORDS. I WOULD LISTEN TO EVERY WORD AND YOUR TEACHINGS ABOUT LIFE AND RECEIVE THE WORD OF JESUS. I DECIDED TO GO TO FISK UNIVERSITY WHERE I MET LESLIE RICHMOND WHO BECAME YOUR SON IN-LAW. MY FIRST JOB OUT OF COLLEGE WAS IN ATLANTA, GA. WHERE I LEARNED THAT YOU WERE THE PASTOR OF EBENEZER BAPTIST CHURCH. MY FAMILY ATTENDED AND JOINED EBENEZER BAPTIST CHURCH AND ENJOYED YOUR SERMONS AND LEADERSHIP. OUR DAUGHTER, TAYLOR WAS DIAGNOISED WITH CANCER AT AGE 3. THANK YOU JESUS FOR DR. ROBERTS AND EBENEZER FOR BEING THERE FOR ME AND MY FAMILY. DR. ROBERTS WAS ALWAYS THERE WHEN YOU NEEDED HIM. HE WAS WITH US AT THE HOSPITAL ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS TO PROVIDE SUPPORT AND WORDS OF ENCOURAEMENT. WHILE TAYLOR WAS IN KINDERGARDEN AT WOODWARD ACADEMY, SHE SELECTED DR. ROBERTS AS HER HERO DURING BLACK HISTORY MONTH. DR. ROBERTS AGREED TO COME SPEAK TO THE CLASS TO HELP EDUCATE THEM ON BLACK HISTORY AND EBENEZER BAPTIST CHURCH. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CARING HEART AND SPIRIT. REST IN PEACE DR. ROBERTS!
DR. ROBERTS, WE LOVE YOU AND WILL MISS YOU.

THE LEWIS FAMILY

February 20, 2015

Dr. Roberts baptized me at the Heritage Sanctuary when I joined Ebenezer Baptist Church back in 1985, My heart is so heavy at this time and my prayers are with the Roberts Family at this most difficult time. With Sympathy, Kevin E. Thomas and Family.

Brent Robinson

February 20, 2015

Sincere condolences to the Roberts family! The world has lost a great man! Rest in peace Pastor Roberts!

Johnnie Tabor

February 19, 2015

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Marion Black

February 19, 2015

We love you, we appreciate you, and we thank God for you.

Gloria Rayford

February 19, 2015

To the Roberts Family Pastor Joe was a giant among men. He understood and cared for you both spiritually and physically. He was there for me during a very difficult time in my life. My oldest son, Kyron, was the first baby he dedicated as pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church. My prayers are with you all .He will truly be missed!

February 19, 2015

I remember attending, Convent Avenue Baptist Church, in the 1980's, Rev. Roberts, conducting a revival at the church. I lived in N.Y.C. at that time, a friend of mine, was a member of, Convent and invited me to the revival. That was my first time seeing the Reverend. I will never forget his sermon, entitled" Convenient Ignorance". I frequent use the term and give the reverend the credit. He was on point with the sermon, it is applicable today. I relocated to, Atlanta in the 1990's and would on occasion attend his services at, Ebenezer, until he retired. He was a role model for mankind. He will be missed, but he left a legacy for all to emulate. GOD has a place for him to continue doing great work. My condolences goes out to the family, you all were greatly blessed and highly favored to have a wonderful man like, Reverend Roberts, in your family.

R.L. Robinson, R.N.

February 19, 2015

May you find comfort in the words at Phillipians 4:6,7

Asheville, NC

February 19, 2015

To the Roberts Family

We send our sincere condolences regarding the passing of Dr. Roberts. He was a great neighbor as we were growing up, a great pastor and servant leader. My father the late Rev. C. Grier and Doc. we're great friends. They both have gone home receive their rewards.

We will keep all of you in our prayers. Please do the same for us.
We love you all

The Grier Family

Emanuel Solomon

February 19, 2015

May God bless your family as you celebrate the life of a true soldier for Christ....Solomon family

February 19, 2015

Dr. Roberts was such a blessing to me! I look forward to joining the celebration of his life on Friday and Saturday.

Nancy L. Jones, Cambridge, MA

Janice Nash Champion

February 19, 2015

Feb. 20,2015

Dear Family,
My deepest sympathy goes out to the family on the death of Dr. Roberts. He also would ask me was my soul being fed, always concern about my relationship with God. He was always a caring person about others. He will be missed..

February 19, 2015

Rev. Roberts was such an inspiration to me and my daughter and her children. As they were growing up to become adults, they learned what a great man and teacher of life he was. He will always be loved and missed by our family. Brenda and Morris Dillard. His beloved Esther Jean will be nurtured by us and many others.

Robert Cummins

February 19, 2015

Our condolences to the Roberts family from the Cummins family. May God help you heal and grow even in this dark hour.

Bill Lee

February 19, 2015

Pastor Roberts and I worked together for several years in the broadcast of Ebneezer services and special events. He was a true man of God, a stirring speaker and a great church leader. He was a pleasure to work with and will be sorely missed in the church and the Atlanta area.
I'm sure God has a special place in Heaven for him.

February 19, 2015

Well done thy good and faithful servant. Enter unto thy rest. My prayers are with the family.

Bishop G.A. Bryant

February 19, 2015

What an extraordinary man. I called him ,he return my call. He was very kind release great wisdom to me. I will never forget his marvelous and incredible voice. He never met a stranger. What a giant has gone from labor to reward. A life well lived. Now it's time to rest . Rest well servant .

Phillip and Sarah Finch

February 19, 2015

Our pastor for most of our adult years. Married us. Helped us mature. Blessed our children and encouraged their growth. Saw us through family ups and downs. Preached with a tone that sounded like "the voice of God". Deep-thinking intellectual and a loving comedian too! What a man and what a reach! His mark will last forever on us and on the world. Rest in peace, Pastor. Love, peace and support to Mrs. Roberts and the whole Roberts family.

Sharon Taylor

February 18, 2015

I remember to this day the powerful example that the Rev Dr. Roberts set for me as a young person. He was our pastor during the turbulent 60s and I knew then that he was destined to do great things. I later discovered that he was also close to another icon, Rev Bill Gray who was the pastor of the church I attended while I was in college. Indeed he helped to order my steps and I will never forget him. May God bless his wife Jean, his children and family during this difficult time.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Sharon Chavies Taylor

February 18, 2015

What a great life lived. God bless and keep you.

Norm & Pat Joyner

February 18, 2015

I remember Pastor Roberts when he was the Pastor of Keer Avenue Presbyterian Church in Newark NJ and then we moved to Atlanta and was the Pastor of Ebenezer. That is when we decided to join Ebenezer 20 years ago. We will remember his powerful sermons and his kind heart. We will keep his family members in our prayers and Pasor Robert in our hearts.

Anita Goodwyn

February 18, 2015

I am sorry to learn of the passing of Joe Roberts. Joe is special to me as he married my husband Ben and me back in 1967 at Elmwood United Presbyterian Church in East Orange, NJ. My condolences to Jean and his children.

Gwen Whitehead

February 18, 2015

To The Family of Dr. Joseph L. Roberts, Jr., & The Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church Family,


As we celebrate The Homegoing of Dr. Joseph L. Roberts, Jr., there's one certain thing we have to remember in all this, one thing more powerful than the sadness you feel; God's love is here to surround you, to strengthen you, and to carry you. His love will help you walk through, to bring you hope, and comfort.

May God give you strength to face each day and wisdom for all the decisions you will face. May you be surrounded with carrying friends and family to support you during this difficult time. Keep and cherish Dr. Roberts memories forever so that when you have quiet moments you will sense his love for you very near.

Words cannot describe how marvelous, or how incredible I think and know it will be, to see our Lord face to face. If we could just get a glimpse of the Glory of the Lord, we would celebrate for our loved ones who are experiencing His Greatness. He was loved on Earth and now he is in the presence of Love forever and happy with Jesus alone.

Prayerfully always,
Ms. Gwendolyn Whitehead
Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church

Sarah Erickson

February 18, 2015

I learned much from Dr. Roberts during the years we worked together at Columbia Seminary. I felt like I was in the presence of living history, sitting at the feet of a wise, generous, strong, learned prophet, servant-leader,and beloved Child of God.

February 18, 2015

I will always have fond memories of Pastor Roberts.He was truly a great pastor and was dear friend of my mother and step-father (Nellie and Joseph Britton).

Donald Smith
Emwood Church, East Orange.

Sharon Swearington

February 18, 2015

Pastor Roberts was such a wonderful preacher, a wonderful friend and a wonderful husband, father and Grandpa. He will be greatly missed, but the memories I have of him as my Pastor will bring comfort to my heart for years to come. May the hearts of his family be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as they celebrate a life well lived.

Chief Clarence E. (Bumpy) Cox, III

February 18, 2015

What a great journey, what a great man and what a great lost for all who didn't get to know Pastor Joe. As I grew up in Ebenezer under his great leadership, there was never a time when Pastor Joe didn't take time to share some wisdom. As I grew older and even after he retired and I would see him from time to time, his kind words and conversation remained spirit filled. His guiding hand and words of wisdom will forever remain in my heart and soul as I reflect on the times we shared together. Family thanks for sharing him with the world, now he's in a place where the fish are always plentiful.

Rev. Evaleen L. Talton Sargent

February 18, 2015

My prayers are with your family during this season of grief. May the love of God and your fund memories of Dr. Roberts be of comfort to you in the days and months ahead!

Janice King

February 18, 2015

My condolences to the Roberts family. Dr. Roberts, performed my wedding along with granddaddy (Daddy King). He also christian my oldest son. He definitely, was a tremendous teacher, preacher & counselor.May you find strength in the love of God and family.

February 18, 2015

Godmommy Jackie, I am sorry that your big brother died, but you still have Godpapa around to watch after you. I also want to say that I am sorry to the wife of Godmommy's brother. I am sure that my Godpapa Price will help take care of you too!! I love you very much!
I love you very much,
Madison Alexandria

Connie Smith-Lindsey

February 18, 2015

Dear God: Thank you for Pastor Joseph Lawrence Roberts, Jr. February 17th would have been his 80th birthday and we can't find the exact words for our earthly celebration. We pray for the strength of his wife, children and family. We believe and know that our mourning will turn to joy in due season. As Pastor, he taught us that the dead in Christ shall RISE AGAIN. May we never forget his melodious voice but most of all may we live the words and impact of his 35 or more years of sermons, lectures, counseling sessions and the real laughter he shared. God, you created an authentic man and servant for the Ebenezer Baptist Church family and we are blessed. Rest in peace, Pastor Joseph Lawrence Roberts, Jr. - We love and miss you. Always In Our Hearts, - Mrs. Connie F. Smith-Lindsey

Anita Mack

February 17, 2015

Sending you and your family prayers and love during this difficult time of Rev. Roberts' transition. The fond memories of my childhood at Elmwood United Presbyterian Church will always include Rev. Roberts, his vision, and the commitment to the young people of the church, along with your kind and quiet strength, Mrs. Roberts. I can still see my mother smiling as she would cook a meal for you and
Rev. Roberts at our house. And so, God has received another angel in Rev. Joseph L. Roberts, Jr. His memory will continue to live in my heart. I will always remember the joy I would get as a child when I would be in the company of Rev. & Mrs. Joseph L. Roberts, Jr. May God bless you and your family always.

Noel Erskine

February 17, 2015

For several years during the 1980s Dr. Joseph Roberts taught a course on the development and delivery of the sermon at Emory University. His gifts of teaching and preaching were extraordinary. He mirrored the divine humility we meet in the life of Christ

Jamie & Edith Burwell

February 17, 2015

It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.

Eugene Turner

February 17, 2015

Jeanne, and the Roberts family. I share your sense of loss. Joe was a college friend and his was lasting friendship to the end of his life. I thank God for his witness to the Christian Gospel. Love, Eugene (Gene) Turner, the Rev. Dr.

Beatrice Dunbar

February 17, 2015

My heart is sadden by the transition of a giant of man of God. However I count it a joy to have known Dr. Roberts over the years. He came to Ebenezer in 1975. I joined the second Sunday, he preached. I was a member at Ebenezer for his entire tenure. Coincidently I moved from Atlanta the year he retired September 2005. He was a great teacher, servant and a pastor with a heart of love. I hold to the teaching he instilled upon me to increase my faith and continue to regale to others how his ministry molded me to be the Christian that I am. I have not visited Atlanta much since moving but the last visit Dr. Roberts was preaching and it made my stay be as I had not left. Your hearts may be heavy; but be at eased your loved one has gone home to be with his brother and other family that preceded him. He is waiting for his love ones to come and join him at the great family reunion that is yet to come. Hold to your faith and be dependent on Jesus the Christ your true comfort.

Rev. Robert Burkins

February 17, 2015

Dr. Roberts was one of my mentors. He influenced my decision to accept the call to pastor Elmwood United Presbyterian Church in East Orange, NJ where he pastored from 1961-1969. Rest In Peace, my friend.

Lydia Williams

February 17, 2015

Pastor Roberts will be truly missed. I am so honored to have served under him as the Youth Choir Director at Ebenezer for ten years. He always had an amazing way of leading with authority, wisdom, kindness and love. He was always available to talk. He fostered a strong community of believers. He was an outstanding orator. He was not just a Pastor, he was a father to us all. I am proud to have known this great man of God.
My prayers are with you Roberts Family!

Pastor Joe, see you on the other side!

Luther Ivory

February 17, 2015

Rest I Peace Pastor Joe! You were an important influence in my preaching and pastoring. Thanks you for always encouraging me even when the worst may have happened, or so i thought). You will be genuinely missed. Lu Ivory

February 17, 2015

As long as I can remember going to church, there has been Joseph Roberts. Growing up in New Jersey, he was my pastor at Elmwood United Presbyterian Church, and when I moved to Atlanta, he became my pastor once again at Ebenezer Baptist Church.
I have many fond memories of Dr Roberts, and his family.
I remember once in our Tuesday bible study, Doc said that he had many faults, but one thing I know he didn't have was a "religious ego". He was a humble, gracious man, who served alongside anybody and everybody. He made everyone feel special. I will miss him.
Karen D Stokes

Rev. Albert and Urla Moses

February 17, 2015

To the family, a mighty oak has fallen. He has touched and enriched our lives. We are praying for you.

Jacqueline Lott Jackson

February 17, 2015

Pastor Joe let his light so shine before people that they saw his good works, and it impelled them to glorify our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

Jackson Wedding 2/10/1996

Jacqueline Lott Jackson

February 17, 2015

Pastor Joseph Lawrence Roberts, Jr. who I affectionately over the last 38 years has called "Pastor Joe" has been a blessing to me and my family. I joined Ebenezer Baptist Church in September, 1977 under his pastorate. Over the years he has counseled, supported, instructed, and taught me biblical principles that I have applied to my life. He married me in 1996, dedicated my daughter to the Christian ministry in 1999 and was there whenever I needed someone to listen or pray.

I am sure he can hear God saying, "Well done, good and faithful servant you have been faithful over a few things, I am now making you ruler over many (paraphrased)..."

I will miss him dearly.

February 17, 2015

The Chancel Choir of People's Community Church, Detroit, MI wishes to convey our deepest sympathy to the family. Rev. Roberts' visited Peoples many times during the years. Great preacher and singer - truly one of God's trombones. Mrs. Vera I. Boyd, President, Chancel Choir, PCC

February 17, 2015

Dear Jeannie, God will bless and console you in this hour. Love, respect and fond memories of a true "giant" of a man will always be in our hearts. Lessye and Charles

Jeremiah Wright

February 17, 2015

Dr. Roberts was an inspiration to me, a model for me and a mentor whose teachings I will always treasure. The foundation that he laid for my close friend, Dr. Robert N. Burkins, and for the congregation of the Elmwood Presbyterian Church in East Orange was phenomenal. It was equalled and only surpassed by his amazing ministry to and with the congregation of the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. I thank God for his life, his love, his labor and his inimitable legacy.

February 17, 2015

A Pastor, Friend and Confidant.He will be missed
by so many of us. My Love to the family.

Love,
Joyce McKay

February 17, 2015

Thank you for integrity, professionalism and your excelllence of spiritual leadership. A2Z IMPRINTS, INC.

Rev. S. Mitchell

February 17, 2015

Sincere Condolences to the family of Rev. Joseph L. Roberts Jr. His presence and preaching was a gift to all! Rest well faithful servant.

Van Smith

February 17, 2015

Family,
My heart is too full, but I am praying sweet peace and love to Mother Jeannie, and to all of you. In a little while, we'll be able to rejoice in the celebration of this birthday and the home-going of our Beloved Warrior.

February 17, 2015

Glory as he enters that heavenly realm we all must eventually enter one day. Peace and blessings to Joe's family and loved ones. Rev. Dr. Paul Smith, Washington, D.C.

February 17, 2015

Rev. Roberts married us, and he was an excellent servant leader and pastor.

Earl & Rhonda Ward

February 16, 2015

Dear Cousin Jeannie and family. We were so sorry to hear about Cousin Bobby's passing. Please know that we will be praying for the family during this sad time. Love Lynda and Dennis Smith and family.

February 16, 2015

Dr Roberts was a brilliant man of God, he carried out the Great Commission in an exceptional manner.
Well Done!
Art Hines

February 16, 2015

May the fond memories that you have of your loved one be a source of comfort to you now, and in the years to come.

Dr. Em McNair

February 16, 2015

Dr. Joe Roberts gave me good advise. His flame will live forever. God bless his family.

Jesse and Donna Gant Oden

February 16, 2015

Our heart felt condolences to the Roberts family. Dr. Roberts was our moral compass through the years. He will be sorely missed. "Well done my good and faithful servant..." Rest with the Lord.

February 16, 2015

My heart goes out to the Robert's family of the loss of this giant. The legacy Rev. Roberts leaves will inspire so many for generations. Dr. Roberts was a great orator and great spiritual leader. He will be missed. Absent from the body present will the Lord. Rest in peace. Joyce Peacock.

Showing 1 - 100 of 115 results

Make a Donation
in Joseph ROBERTS's name

Memorial Events
for Joseph ROBERTS

Feb

20

Visitation

3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church

GA

Feb

20

Wake

7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church

GA

Feb

21

Celebration of Life

12:00 p.m.

Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church

407 Auburn Ave., Atlanta, GA

Funeral services provided by:

Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home, Inc. - Riverdale Chapel

6580 Church St., Riverdale, GA 30274

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