Jimmy D. Roberts

Jimmy Roberts was born on January 25, 1947 to the Late Paul Roberts and Mary (Queen) Jackson in Claxton, Georgia

Jimmy referred to as "Jimmy D" was formally educated in Claxton, Georgia in Evans County High School where he excelled in education and sports. Jimmy D was Class President at his High School. Jimmy conceived two boys Zyon and Antonio (Danny) while residing in Georgia. Jimmy was known as a legend in football during high school and college breaking various records, which led him to receive a full football scholarship; he graduated with a Bachler’s degree in education at Fort Valley State College located in Fort Valley, Ga. Also, due to his Athletic accomplishments and broken records in football, he was invited to participate in the Dallas Cowboys Training Camp; unfortunately, he sustained a knee injury and was no longer able to pursue a career in professional sports. While Jimmy was attending Fort Valley State College he began courting Debra Laverne Smartt, they married in June 1971 in Cordele, GA; out of this union three additional children were born; twin girls Sharon & Shavon and son Eric. Jimmy relocated his family to Indianapolis, Indiana for new teaching opportunities arriving in the late 1970's; landing his first teaching opportunity with Indianapolis Public Schools. He later obtained a master’s degree from Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis. Jimmy was employed as a teacher for over 35 years. He spent 28 of those years teaching at Decatur Middle School, retiring from there in 2009.

Jimmy was an excellent educator as well as a devoted coach. Jimmy would pick up students for practice if they did not have transportation to and from games and practice. His own children would also load up in the station wagon and travel along. Jimmy was truly loved by his students. Jimmy would always bring his students candy and treats to class. Around Christmas time every year he enjoyed showing his students the hilarious movie “A Christmas Story”.

Jimmy accepted Christ at an early age. Jimmy was a loving father and grandfather. Very encouraging and positive in his speech. He also had a great sense of humor and has touched many lives.

To cherish his precious memories. He leaves his children: Antonio (Monique) Roberts of Atlanta GA; Zyon (Sharon) Smiley of Savannah, GA; Shavon (Paul) Jones of Indianapolis, IN; Sharon (Robert) Young of Indianapolis, IN: Eric Roberts of Indianapolis, IN; 13 grandchildren; Sisters & Brothers: Geneva Thomas of Claxton, GA, Pecola (Bill) Hall of Claxton, GA Maeva (Rev. Roberts) Edwards Claxton, Ga., Marvenia Williams of Claxton, GA, John Willie Roberts of North Carolina, Jessie Roberts of North Caroline and late Paul Roberts of Florida.