Richard Roberts

Richard Leon Roberts of Jackson, 80, passed away Thursday, April 21, 2022, with his family by his side.

He was born April 29, 1941, in Sikeston, Missouri, to Cecil and Pearl Roberts.

Known as Rick to his friends, he attended Sikeston High School and joined the U.S. Army at the age of 17. He served three years and later joined the U.S. Air Force, serving another 12 years of active duty.

After completing his term of enlistment, he returned to his boyhood home and later was hired at Noranda Aluminum as an electrician, retiring with over 20 years of service.

Rick was a member of the Missouri Army National Guard, serving an additional 25 years for a total of 40 years military service and achieving the rank of first sergeant.

Rick's fun-loving, kind and generous personality was known by all. He lived every day to the fullest, accepting all challenges with a degree of intrepidity. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and western dancer. He spent time as a member of the VFW and Eagles of Jackson, dancing with his wife and with friends along the way. His passion for classic cars helped him find a home with the Capaha Car Club.

But above all, he was a devoted husband and father. He loved his family and his grandchildren, and he made friends in the many activities he joined. Rick is loved by many and missed by all.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joanne Brumlow of Fancy Farm, Kentucky.

He is survived by his children, Rita, Rollin, Jason, Jerry and Susan.

Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday at McCombs Funeral Home in Jackson.

Funeral service will be at 11 a.m., followed by internment at 2 p.m. at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery at Bloomfield.