Willie Roberts

Willie R. Roberts, lovingly known to family and friends as Ms. Billie, was born on July 1, 1934, in Lisman, Alabama, and peacefully passed away in the comfort of her home on January 21, 2026.

Ms. Billie was the beloved daughter of the late Terrie Franklin and Reese Ruffin. She was raised in Mobile, Alabama, where she developed the values that guided her life-love, patience, strength, and generosity. Those values shaped not only who she was, but how she cared for and supported everyone around her.

Above all else, Ms. Billie cherished her family. She took immense pride in her grandson and great-grandson, pouring into them unconditional love, wisdom, and care. She had a remarkable way of making sure her children and loved ones never went without-not only in the physical sense, but emotionally and spiritually as well. Her presence brought comfort, stability, and reassurance, and she was, in every sense, the heart of our family.

Ms. Billie's warmth and kindness were deeply felt by all who knew her. Whether she was sharing stories, dancing to her favorite music, or preparing a home-cooked meal, she created spaces filled with joy, laughter, and togetherness. Her home was a place where love lived openly and generously.

She had a keen eye for fashion and a natural talent for decorating, always bringing beauty and flair into her surroundings. Ms. Billie also found joy in life's simple pleasures-gardening, sewing, playing cards, and watching classic Westerns. Her love for smooth R&B music often filled the home, setting a tone of warmth, nostalgia, and celebration. You could always count on her to turn up the music, dance, smile, and fully enjoy the moment.

Cooking was one of the many ways Ms. Billie expressed her love. Preparing meals for her family brought her genuine happiness and was one of the ways she nurtured those she held dear.

Ms. Billie's legacy lives on through the traditions she created, the love she shared, and the strength she instilled in everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She is survived by her son, Jeremiah Roberts (Renee) of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; her daughter, Linda Roberts of Jefferson City, Missouri; her grandson, Gil Scott Roberts (Chanel) of Los Angeles, California; and her great-grandson, Legend Roberts.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jeremiah Roberts; her daughter, Bobbie J. Roberts; and her brother, Joe Lewis Franklin.

A visitation will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Trimble Funeral Homes in Jefferson City, Missouri, beginning at 10:00 a.m. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. in the Trimble Chapel, with a repass held immediately following the service at the River Region Community Room.