Michael Newton Roberts

Michael ("Mike") Newton Roberts was born in Kingston, Jamaica, on September 22, 1938, to his loving parents, Alice Dorothy and Eric Newton Roberts. As a young man, Mike attended Howard University in Washington, D.C., leaving Jamaica to pursue opportunities made possible by his exceptional academic gifts. He graduated summa cum laude and earned an academic scholarship to pursue an MBA at the University of Chicago. While studying at the University of Chicago, Mike met the love of his life, Lou Jean ("Jean") Simmons. They married and shared more than 60 wonderful years together, building a life across three states, raising two beloved children, and being blessed with five beautiful and talented grandchildren. Mike was a lifelong learner whose greatest joy was sharing his knowledge with others. He found deep fulfillment in his career and served as an executive leader with respected companies including Wilson Sporting Goods, W.W. Grainger, and QVC. Mike also found great joy in the beauty of God's creation. He had a deep appreciation for the gifts God placed all around us-from trees and flowers to birds, fish, bodies of water and the quiet beauty of the natural world. He found peace in these simple blessings and never lost his sense of wonder for the world God created. Beyond his remarkable academic and professional accomplishments, Mike will be remembered for the qualities that defined his character. He was a true gentleman with quick wit, a gifted way with words, masterful storytelling abilities, an extraordinarily generous spirit, and an unwavering love for and faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He led by quiet example, treating everyone he met with respect, kindness, and grace. He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Jean; his son, Richard (Dimyka); his daughter, Alice (Richard Davis); his cherished grandchildren, Dorian, Dariya, Eric, and Olivia; his beloved sister and closest friend, Margueritte (Larry Gadbois); and a host of dearly loved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Mike was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Alice and Eric; his sister, Simone Jennifer; and his grandson, Richard, Jr. Mike's legacy lives on. He was a great man and we are forever grateful to have called him husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. www.Washburn-McReavy.com Davies Chapel 612-377-2203

Michael Newton Roberts

September 22, 1938 - July 18, 2026

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