Jesse Ray Roberts, 79, of Walnut Ridge passed from this life on Sunday, July 30, 2023 at his residence.  He was born September 9, 1943, in Lauratown to the late Thomas Wesley and Jewell (Stone) Roberts. He was united in marriage to Linda Zentz on June 28, 1996, in Sterling, Illinois. Jesse was a crane operator for Northwest Steele and Wire in Sterling, Illinois for over thirty years. He proudly served in the United States Army for two years. He was of the Christian belief.

In addition to his parents, Jesse was preceded in death by his first wife, Karen Roberts; brothers, Harold Roberts and J.D. Roberts; sisters, Thelma Hibbard, Erma Rider, and Dorothy Russell.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Roberts of the home; step-sons, Roy Zentz of Reyno, Nevada, and Rodney Beltz of Chicago, Illinois; siblings, Thomas "Butch" Roberts of Jonesboro, Linda Milgrim (Charles) of Black Rock, Norma Tillman of Walnut Ridge, and Judy Bridges (Jim) of Walnut Ridge; special granddaughter he raised as his own, Chloe Slater; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be Friday, August 4, 2023, from 4 until 5 p.m. in Cox Funeral Home chapel in Walnut Ridge.  A celebration of life will immediately follow at 5 p.m. with Gary Mashburn officiating.  All arrangements are under the direction of Cox Funeral Home in Walnut Ridge.

Online Registry: coxfhwalnutridge.com