Obituary of Gerald Vernon Roberts

Gerald V. (Jerry) Roberts died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family Saturday, May 28, 2011. Jerry was born June 19, 1938 in Crescent City, FL., to Cyrus Sheffield and Margaret (Bennett) Roberts who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brother John Kenneth Roberts. Jerry was raised in Pierson, Florida until he joined the Army where he was in the Special Forces Division, 82nd Airborne. He served a total of 4 years, 3 years in Germany, and earned the rank of Sergeant. Upon being honorably discharged, he was employed with the State of Florida Fish & Game Commission, Branch Manager of Borden's Dairy, and the Marion County Sheriff"s Office, where he was a polygraph examiner, retiring as a Lieutenant after 20 years of dedicated service. He earned a BA degree at Central Florida College and Certified Public Manager degree from Florida State University. After retirement he owned a very successful polygraph business, Advanced Polygraph Service. Jerry's favorite pastime was spending time with his beloved family and friends, whether it was going on a cruise, having a cookout, or just watching a football game. He was Baptist by faith and a member of Trinity Baptist Church, Ocala, FL. He is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Edith Elliott Roberts, sons Kenneth H. Roberts (Yalanda) of Bonifay, FL., Robbie Alvarez, David Alvarez (Kim), and daughter Nancy Bruce (Matt) all of Ocala, FL., brother Robert (Bobby) Roberts (Virginia) of Pierson, FL., sisters Betty Kalmback, Pierson, FL., and Carroll Middleton, Pomona Park, FL., brother-in-law Walter (Sonny) Elliott (Mara) whom he loved as much as if they were his own brother and sister, 12 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Although we are certain he is in his Heavenly Father's arms, he will forever be missed by his loving family. Services will be held at 11am, Friday, June 3 at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, 910 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to Odyssey Hospice, 1320 SE 25th Loop, Suite 101, Ocala, FL., 34471 as they were a such a blessing to our family.