Richard Roberts, age 83, of Athens, Tennessee, passed peacefully into his eternal home early Thursday morning, August 20, 2026, following a brief illness. A lifelong native of Athens, Richard was a hardworking man who spent many years providing for his family. He worked as a block and brick mason before becoming a carpenter, where he worked alongside Ronnie Thompson and the late Clarence McPhail. Richard was a Baptist and a man who took great pride in his family, his home, and the things he could create with his hands.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Scott and Gene Marler Roberts; one brother, Earl Roberts; and three sisters, Mabra Johnson, Johnnie Dennis, and Ruby Huston.

Richard leaves behind his loving wife of nearly 64 years, Martha Richesin Roberts; his son, Scott (Cheryl) Roberts; his special granddaughter, Samantha (Bryan) Owenby; sister-in-law, Becky Richesin; brother-in-law, Darrell (Liz) Richesin; and several nieces and nephews.

Richard found great joy in working with wood and was especially talented at building beautiful birdhouses and creating other things with his hands. He loved farming and tending to his vegetable gardens, often sharing the fruits of his labor with family and friends. He took pride in keeping a well-groomed yard and enjoyed growing beautiful flowers alongside his wife. Richard also enjoyed hunting for deer and turkeys. Above all, he cherished the time spent with those he loved and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Amedisys Hospice of Athens for their compassionate care and services.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Companion Funeral Home of Athens. A celebration of life service will follow at 7:00 p.m., officiated by Josh Cornelius.

A brief graveside service and burial will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Idlewild Baptist Church Cemetery in Athens. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.