James "Jimmy" Riley Roberts Jr.

 James Riley Roberts, Jr., lovingly known to many as “Jimmy Jr.,” passed away on Monday, February 2nd at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on October 23rd, 1936, in Corinth, Mississippi to the late Nelle Dowdy and James Riley Roberts Sr. To know Jimmy Jr. was to be loved by him. He was the kind of man who made everyone feel like family-whether you were one of his children, grandchildren, or a friend who simply stopped by to say hello and never left without a smile or a full heart.

Affectionately called “Pops” or “Daddy” by those closest to him, he treasured time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and delighted in visits from friends who often showed their love by bringing him his favorite foods. Pops had a quiet way of making ordinary moments special, and his presence alone brought comfort and joy to those around him.

James “Jimmy Jr.” Roberts was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Blount Roberts; his mother, Nelle Roberts; his father, James Riley Roberts, Sr.; his grandson, Blake Thomas Arnold; and his son-in-law, Roger Neely.

He is survived by his loving family, including his daughters Joy Dianne Neely of Clifton, Tennessee, and Susan Nanette “Net” Arnold of Lobelville, Tennessee; his grandchildren Roger “Brandon” Treadwell of Linden, Tennessee, and Brandi Lynette Lee (Ben) of Huntingdon, Tennessee; and his great-grandchildren Rylee Holladay, Hunter Treadwell, and Corben Lee, who were among his greatest joys. He is also survived by his great-great-granddaughter, Oakley Moore, as well as cousins Dorothy L. Holt and Mary Jo Connell, and many other extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Jimmy Jr. dedicated over 40 years of service to TDOT, retiring after a long and faithful career. In his earlier years, he enjoyed riding horses and working at Roberts Supermarket and Hardware in Clifton. One of his favorite jobs was delivering groceries by boat to the towboats that traveled up and down the Tennessee River-a role that perfectly matched his love of people and simple pleasures. After retirement, you could often find Pops sitting peacefully at the park in Clifton, watching the boats go by, content in the life he had lived.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 from 10:00 AM until service time at 2:00 PM at Bates-Love Funeral and Cremation Chapel

Funeral Services will begin at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at Bates-Love Funeral and Cremation Chapel with Pastor James Newcomb officiating. Interment will follow in the Clifton Cemetery.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers include C.J. Staggs, Matthew Staggs, Paul Plunkett, Rick Pettit, Ron Mudd and Johnny Neely.  

The family would like to extend special thanks to the Volunteer Hospice team, especially Austin Burks and Rhonda Lemay, for their kindness, compassion, and care during Pops’ final days.

Though Pops may no longer be with us in body, his love lives on– in stories told, traditions passed down, and the countless lives he touched simply by being himself. He will forever be remembered for his gentle heart, his steady presence, and the deep love he gave so freely.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be given to the Blake Thomas Arnold Memorial Scholarship Fund 174 West Seventh Ave. Lobelville, TN 37097

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