Lee Roberts Obituary

Lee Roberts

March 16, 2025

JOHNSON CITY - Lee Roberts (Major retired U.S. Army IRR) of Johnson City, Tennessee

"Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near."

Revelation 1:3

Lee vacated his earth-suit for heavenly garments on March 16, 2025. A native of Erwin, TN, he graduated ETSU with a degree in Environmental Health. He retired from the Buncombe Co., N.C. Health Department where he worked as a health inspector. During this time he earned a Master's Degree in Public Health Adm. from UNC Chapel Hill.

In 1970, he married his devoted wife, Nancy, of 54 years. Theirs was a loving and close marriage. They had 2 wonderful daughters. Lee traveled extensively in Europe while in the military. He hitchhiked when it was relatively safe.

When their daughters were born, he and Nancy loaded them up in their 1972 Olds Cutlass and traversed the U.S. becoming "50-Staters." They all enjoyed sightseeing in Northern Mexico and most of Canada.

Lee was a character: teasing and pulling tricks on Nancy frequently. They were very generous and helped support missionaries all over the U.S. and the world.

Lee was skilled in carpentry, played pool, was a lousy mechanic, and no good in dealing with electricity. He was a true gentle man and loved Jesus, His Savior and Lord. In his Christian service, he was a deacon, S.S. teacher, and sat on numerous committees. Lee was a member of Central Baptist Church and the Koinonia S.S. Class.

At age 48, he was stricken with Non-Hodgkins' Lymphoma. Even though it was treated, it recurred. Enrolled at Walter Reed Army Hospital in an experimental program, he spent 6 months there, receiving an autologous bone marrow transplant. Nancy stayed with him day and night until she was assured, he would survive. His goal was "walking my girls down the aisle," which he did.

As a reservist, he was called up during Desert Shield. He served his country well, developed a program involving medical desert threats for which he received the Army Commendation Award.

This wonderful man is survived by his wife who adored him, daughter, Tristan, who she lovingly called "Dad-dee," two wonderful Sons-in-law, Will Perry and Scott Stephens, his red-headed grandson and name sake, Eric Lee Stephens, one sister, Diana Berry, and a brother, Thomas Roberts, his gregarious poodle, Jasmine, and a grand-poodle, Baby Ruth, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death is a heavenly daughter, Audran Stephens, and an infant granddaughter, Emily Ann Stephens.

Lee meant the world to his family and will be sorely missed. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 2:00 pm with Reverend Tommy Hood officiating at the Mountain Home National Cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is serving the Roberts family. (423) 282-1521