Col. Jimmy P. Roberts

Lt. Col. Jimmy P. Roberts, USAF (Ret.) 70, of Zion, IL, formerly of Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away Wednesday, March 2, 2011. He was born March 1, 1941 in Amory, Mississippi to Marcelle Roberts and Connie Sigmund Roberts. J. P. was a graduate of the University of Mississippi and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1963. He was stationed at Nellis AFB where he raised his family. He served in Vietnam as an F-4 and F-15 fighter pilot and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross among his commendations. He retired in Las Vegas after 20 years of distinguished service having earned the rank of Lt. Colonel. Jimmy enjoyed traveling, skiing, flying, photography, boating, and his dogs. He was an active skier and skied in Europe, South America and New Zealand. He was an active member of the Las Vegas Ski Club and served on the board of directors. When asked what "JP" meant, he said, "Just Perfect". He is survived by his son Jay Roberts of Amory, MS, grandchildren Skye Garrison of Las Vegas, Jasmine Roberts of Amory, MS, and Mason Roberts of Las Vegas, and his devoted cousin and guardian Michael G. Kennedy and his wife Marilyn and trusted friend Craig Caples of Las Vegas. He was preceded in death by his parents and son Jeffrey and companion Angela Thomason. The family would like to gratefully acknowledge those special ones at the Sheridan Healthcare who cared for and about Jimmy. We would also like to thank STAR Hospice for their loving care and Chaplain Davis for his spiritual support and prayers. A military service will be held on Saturday March 12, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel at Mt. Olivet Memorial Park where he will rest. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lovell FHCC (VA-North Chicago), Community Affairs, 3001 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL 60064 - please note donation in memory of Lt. Col. J. P. Roberts, USAF (Ret.), or STAR Hospice, 2645 Washington St, suite 240, Waukegan, IL 60085.