James Russell Roberts

James Russell Roberts, 76, of Armstrong, passed away at 10:00 AM Saturday, October 21, 2023, at his home. 

Jim was born on January 7, 1947, in Danville, Illinois, the son of Russell and Ruth (Harrison) Roberts. He married Judith “Judy” Sappenfield on January 21, 1968, in Royal, Illinois. She survives. 

He is also survive by two daughters - Kristy (Thomas) Vandekerckhove of Evanston, Illinois, and Shelly (Aaron) Stewart of Naperville, Illinois; three grandchildren- Aiden and Drew Vandekerckhove and Ethan Stewart; three sisters- Bonnie Gordon of Champaign, Illinois, Cheryl Bosley, of St. Joseph, Illinois and  Lori O’Rourke of Arcola Illinois; and several nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents. 

Jim graduated from Armstrong High School in 1965. He worked his whole life as a farmer until his retirement at the end of 2021.  Jim continued helping his farmer friends and neighbors during the harvest season after his retirement.  He had a love of farming and once a farmer always a farmer.  Jim also loved preserving old tractors and old farm equipment.  He was a jack of all trades, enjoyed target shooting and also was an aviation enthusiast. Jim was a member of the former Hope Church of Christ.

A celebration of Jim‘s life will be held at 10 AM Thursday, October 26, 2023 at the Blurton Funeral Home, in Potomac.  He will be laid to rest following the service in Partlow Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 4 PM to 7 PM Wednesday at the funeral home.  Memorial’s may be made to the donors choice.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home  to assist them in honoring Jim’s life.  Condolences may be sent to the family on Jim’s everlasting memorial page at:  www.blurtonfuneralhomes.com.

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