Helen Marie Roberts

Our beloved mother, Helen Marie (Johnson) Roberts, passed away on January 18, 2025. She was born on May 9, 1937 in Leavenworth, Kansas to Ralph E. Johnson and Lucille McKoy, who preceded her in death.

Helen grew up in Leavenworth, Kansas, and was a dedicated and loving wife to her late husband of 57 years, Elmer R. Roberts, Sr. and a devoted mother to her children; Elmer R. Roberts, Jr., Tammy Ford, Phillip Roberts, Michael Roberts, Elaine Roberts and the late Eric Roberts. Helen was the sister of Nathaniel White, Archie Johnson, Lillie Johnson, Jessie (Duckworth) Walker, Alvester Duckworth, Harlan Duckworth, Dollie (Duckworth) Dougherty and Jane (McKoy) Lane.

Helen was educated in the Leavenworth School system and attended the University of Missouri (Kansas City) lived a fulfilling life and was a woman of many talents. She was a dedicated homemaker and home designer. Helen served in the military (WAC), worked for the Leavenworth School District and was an Amway Distributer (Diamond Level). She was a faithful member of the Independent Baptist Church, Leavenworth, Kansas, where she initiated and led the first Prayer Team. She was a dedicated member of the NAACP, Socialite Club of Leavenworth, National Association of Black Military Women, and other organizations in the community.

Helen truly believed that it was a blessing to give more than receive. Her generosity knew no bounds. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, with a beautiful soul helping anyone. She was known for her strong will and unwavering determination, love and support for her family and community. Her radiant smile lit up any room she entered. She enjoyed going to the beach, dancing, and traveling. She loved life to the fullest and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, Helen was loved by many people. She was a good Christian and knew the Bible well and had a deep relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer R. Roberts, Sr.; son, Eric Roberts; grandson, Phillip Roberts, II; seven siblings: Jessie Walker, Archie Johnson, Lillie Johnson, Nathaniel White, Alvester Duckworth, Dollie Dougherty, Harlan Duckworth.

She is survived by her children: Elmer Roberts, Jr., Tammy (Roberts) Ford (Toni), Phillip Roberts (Alene), Michael Roberts (Jackie), Elaine Roberts, and daughter in law, Cara Roberts; Grandchildren: Ellysia, Connor, Aurora (Maxx), Aeven, David II, Robert, Tiffany, Shaahid, Tavarus, Annisa, Aaliyah, Dionne, Rosemary, Jadrien, Jennica, Jordyn, Justin, Ellis and Roslyn; sister, Jane Lane (Lamont); 10 great- grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends who will miss her dearly.