Leroy Roberts

Leroy Roberts, born June 27, 1943, in Panther, West Virginia, passed away peacefully at his home on Johnny Cake in Iaeger, WV, in the early hours of July 17, 2025.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Veronica Helmandollar, a sister Shelby Justice, and his parents, Lola Blankenship and Oscar Roberts.

Leroy leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of 63 years, Linda; his son, Kevin Roberts of Iaeger, WV; grandson Brenton (Samantha) Helmandollar of Lerona, WV; granddaughter Dakota (Dennis) Lester of Knoxville, TN; and great-granddaughters Aubree, Brynlee, Addilyn, Camryn, and Jordyn. He is also survived by his sisters Patsy Powell, Fredia Berholtz, and Shirley Cline, all of Princeton, WV; and Sheila Lester of Iaeger, WV; and a special sister-in-law, Vickie Cline.

A lifelong resident of McDowell County, Leroy spent the past 50 years on Johnny Cake, where he built a life centered on family and hard work. He proudly served seven years in the Army National Guard of West Virginia, receiving an honorable discharge in October 1971. Leroy was a master excavator operator, finishing his career with RayCo alongside Dewayne and Brandon Bishop. Many also knew him for his skill in automotive painting and bodywork, a passion that began during his time at the Chevrolet dealership in Bradshaw in the 1970s.

Outside of work, Leroy enjoyed life's simple pleasures-fishing from the riverbank, relaxing on his porch with a Marlboro Red and a strong cup of black coffee, and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who could always bring a smile to his face.

Leroy was known for his quiet strength, kind heart, and unwavering dedication to his family. He led a humble life grounded in faith, friendship, and love, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and integrity for all who knew him.

As we say goodbye, we find comfort in knowing that Leroy is now reunited with his loved ones who passed before him and that his spirit will remain forever in our hearts.

Funeral services will be conducted, Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 11 o'clock with Reverend Chris Riffe and Reverend Russell King officiating at the Chapel of Fanning Funeral Home in Iaeger. Military services will be conducted by the VFW Post #1144 and the West Virginia Honor Guard following the funeral on the parking lot of Fanning Funeral Home in Iaeger. Burial will follow in Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton, WV. Pallbearers will be Brenton Helmandollar, Dennis Lester, Ron Lockhart, Tony Cline, Jeff Cline, Jeff Powell, and Brandon Bishop; honorary pallbearers will be Homer Vance, DeWayne Bishop, Butch Guella and Ronald Lee Roberts.

Friends may visit with the family Saturday morning, July 26, 2025 from 10 o'clock until the time of service at 11.

Fanning Funeral Home in Iaeger is assisting the family.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.fanningfuneralhomes.com