Joseph William Roberts, Jr.

Joseph William "Bill" Roberts, Jr. of Lake Charles was called to his heavenly home by his Lord and Savior on September 1, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones in his home. Bill was born on December 22, 1937 to Clara and Joseph (Joe) Roberts in Kelly, Louisiana. Bill is preceded in death by his mother, father, and sisters Iris Bell and Cathy Sonnier. Those left to cherish his memory and celebrate his victory in Jesus are his wife, Mary; his daughters and their spouses- Sara Roberts (Andy Buisson), Kelly Duff (Michael), and Nicki George (Glenn); stepdaughter, Ashley Cooper; stepson, Beau Gary; seventeen Grandchildren; and nineteen Great Grandchildren.

Bill graduated from Lake Charles High School in 1956 and was a proud "Wildcat", playing basketball for the school team in his favorite numbered jersey "#22". After high school, Bill attended McNeese State University where he studied physics and served in the ROTC. While at McNeese, he made the decision to enroll in the LSU School of Banking, receiving a degree that sparked his life-long love of banking.

Bill spent most of his professional career in finance and banking. He began at a local finance company and eventually found a home at Lakeside National Bank from 1965 - 1995, where he served as branch manager for various locations and eventually became Executive Vice-President at the Main Office branch. He loved working with people and helping the bank to grow and thrive as a small-town banking institution. After retiring from Lakeside Bank, Bill worked at CSE Credit Union as President/CEO and was excited to learn the intricate workings of an employee owned-credit union. After retiring a second time, Bill went to work for his daughter, Sara, at her accounting firm, Sara A. Roberts, CPA, APAC. Bill served as the Office Administrator until his health declined in August of 2026.

Throughout his life, Bill enjoyed many adventures and hobbies. He loved the mountains, especially traveling to Crested Butte, Colorado with his family. He also enjoyed trips along the East Coast leaf-looking and lighthouse spotting in the fall seasons. Bill was an avid sports enthusiast. He loved college football and was a devoted LSU Tiger fan. Bill had a deep love for the Boston Red Sox, even when they weren't hitting. He enjoyed hiking, playing basketball and softball, and playing tennis. Tennis became his passion which kept him active and thriving. He enjoyed weekly games with his "tennis guys" and passed his love of the game on to many of his grandchildren. Bill also loved playing cards and dominoes with his family and friends, especially "Cadillac" and "Chicken Foot".

Bill will be remembered for his hard work, integrity, and dedication to family. What he would want to be remembered for the most would be his love for the Lord. It was important to him for others to know the love and forgiveness that can only be found in a relationship with God. Bill will be deeply missed on this earth by all who knew and loved him, but there is no doubt he is walking the streets of Heaven with his parents, siblings, and friends who have gone before him.

A memorial service to honor Bill's life will be held on September 21, 2026 at 10:00 AM at First Baptist Gillis, located at 678 Topsy Road, Lake Charles, LA 70611. Pastor Glenn George, his son-in-law, will officiate the service.