James Leathel Roberts, Jr. of Blanco, TX passed away at his home surrounded by his family and loved ones on Monday, December 26, 2022, at 83 years of age.

James was born September 8, 1939, in Quanah, TX to James L. Roberts, Sr. and Shirley Sue (Jenkins) Roberts. Following high school, James joined and served his country with the U.S. Air Force. He served in the security division as an Air Patrolman training Century Dogs. During his time in the Air Force, he was stationed in Germany, where he met the love of his life, Christa. They were married on October 28, 1961, in Daun,  Germany.

Following the Air Force, James was a self-made man. He was an entrepreneur, owning and operating many businesses throughout his life. He opened Roberts Machine Shop, where he built pieces for places all across the world, including Disneyland Tokyo, Long Beach Aquarium, and the Bellagio Hotel.

He was a long-time member of the American Legion, a Master Mason of the San Marcos Lodge #342, served as a Director for the Blanco Bowling Alley and ten years on the Blanco County Appraisal Review Board.

James will also be remembered for his award-winning barbeque. He built his own barbeque pits and was known best for brisket and ribs. He volunteered his time barbecuing for many charitable fundraising events.

James had his pilot license and owned many planes that he enjoyed flying across the country. James' favorite place to be was outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, or just sitting on the deck visiting with his family and friends.

James is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Christa (Klar) Roberts; their two daughters, Elke Hughes and husband Kyle, and Melissa Steger and husband Randy; four grandchildren, Jayden and Kelsey Hughes and Jared and Jenna Steger. His brother Johnny Roberts. His brother-in-law Werne Klar and his sister in laws, Renate Petter and Marianne Krogman. He will be missed by many other loving relatives and dear friends. James was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Darlene Smith.

In honoring James' wishes, no services have been scheduled at this time.