John D. Roberts

John D. Roberts, 85 of Benton, Kentucky passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at his home.

John was born in Benton, Kentucky on October 18, 1940 to the late Rudy Van Roberts and Beulah Fowler Roberts.

In 1980, John founded The Life Associates in Benton, KY.  John attained the professional designations of CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter) and ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant).  After being raised in his father's car business, he understood that the customer comes first, which was key to his success and has continued as his daughter Deborah assumed ownership.  The Life Associates has positively impacted countless customers, many of them loyal over decades, and their families.

Throughout his entire life, he was a member at First United Methodist Church in Benton, now Three Crosses Church, where he was a leader and pillar of the faith.  He was an innovator in ministry, spearheading "Great Commission Day", an annual practice of the church.  He bought the original school bus for $250 that founded the bus ministry.  And he led the Jane Riley Christian Growth class for 20+ years growing it to 60+ members, drawing practical and impactful lessons from scripture.  Following the death of his wife Sue, he immersed himself in ministry, serving as a lay minister at Pleasant Grove United Methodist in Graves County for 2 years.  He has been an evangelist throughout his life, bringing people to church and to the faith.

He is survived by his daughter, Deborah Blankenship and husband, Tom of Benton, KY; son, David Roberts and wife, Sara of Johns Creek, GA; his partner, Char Goebel; brother, Lowell Roberts; sisters, Cheryl Scull and Amy Moffitt; six grandchildren; two great-grandsons and another on-the-way.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sue Williams Roberts; two brothers, Wendell Roberts and Mark Roberts; and his parents.

A funeral service will be at 1:00 PM on Friday, January 2, 2026 at Three Crosses Church with Pastor Leah Degolia officiating.  Interment will follow at Benton Cemetery, Benton, KY.

Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Friday, January 2, 2026 at Three Crosses Church, 845 U.S. Hwy 641 Spur, Benton, Kentucky.

Serving as pallbearers are the grandchildren; Emily Saunders, Ben Roberts, Rachel Roberts, Hannah Roberts, Robert Blankenship and also Megan Blankenship, Dianna Larios and Kase Saunders.

Memorial contributions may be made to:  Three Crosses Church, 845 US Hwy. 641 Spur, Benton, Ky 42025 or Ministry of Rob and Megan Blankenship -- Student Mobilization (Student Mobilization) -- https://www.stumo.org