James "Jim" Hall Roberds

James (Jim) Hall Roberds, 84, of Saucier, MS, passed away on Saturday, January 28, 2023. He was born on November 24, 1938, in Estill, SC, the oldest son of his late parents James Linwood and Hattie B. Roberds. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Kay Hensley Roberds, infant son, Timothy W. Roberds, and his brother, Max Roberds.

Jim graduated from Savannah High School in 1956 and from North Carolina State University with a BS and MS in Forestry in 1960 and 1967 respectively.  He worked his entire career after college with the US Forest Service in Raleigh, NC, and Saucier, MS, as a research scientist.  In his retirement, he volunteered for the Forest Service, continuing his research until his death. 

Pine trees were Jim’s passion, and he enjoyed upland bird hunting, reading, running, and telling stories about his life.  He also served as a volunteer with Boy Scout Troop 207 in Raleigh, NC, receiving the Good Shepherd Award, one of Scouting’s highest recognitions for adult leaders. Jim was dedicated to his church and served as an elder at Handsboro Presbyterian Church in Gulfport, MS.

He is survived by his sons: Mike and wife Lisa Woodruff Roberds of Apex, NC; Alan and wife Shellie Holerud Roberds of Savannah, GA; Sean and wife Cara Clontz Roberds of Herndon, VA; and grandchildren Anna and James Roberds of Apex, NC, Sydnie and Dylan Roberds of Savannah, GA, and Cole and Eli Roberds of Herndon, VA.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, 2 p.m., at Handsboro Presbyterian Church, 1304 Pass Road, Gulfport, MS, where friends may visit one hour before service.

Graveside services will be held 2pm, Saturday, February 4, 2023, at Hollywood Cemetery in Middlesex, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Handsboro Presbyterian Church,1304 E. Pass Road, Gulfport MS 39507 or The American Diabetes Association, 1701 North Beauregard St., Alexandria, VA. 22311.

Arrangements by Riemann Family Funeral Homes, Gulfport, MS.