Donald R. Roberts
</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[Donald R. Roberts, 83, of rural Pinckneyville, formerly of Du Quoin, passed away at 8:54 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011 at the Fair Acres Nursing Home in Du Quoin.
Don was known for his work as an automobile mechanic at Sims Ford Garage in Du Quoin in the 1950's and later as a coal miner, retiring from Inland Steel/Consolidation Coal Company in Sesser, Ill., in 1989. Don greatly enjoyed his retirement. He was a member of UMW of A. He had served as a TEC 4 in the U.S. Army during World War II.
He was born May 1, 1927 at Murphysboro, Ill., the son of William Earl and Mary (Sanneman) Roberts.
He married Dolores Faye Keeler and she preceded him in death. He then married Virginia Alvis on Sept. 15, 1962 at Corinth, Miss. and she survives.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Virginia, his son - Kevin Roberts and wife Emily of Osco, Ill., his daughter - Linda (Roberts) Aboussie of St. Louis, Mo., his step daughter - Debbie (Morgan) Coffland of California, four grandchildren, one great grandchild and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, two brothers, and four sisters.
Graveside services were at 11:30 a.m., Monday, Jan. 17, 2011 at the Sunset Memorial Park at Du Quoin with the Du Quoin V.F.W. Chaplain officiating.
Those attending the service were asked to go directly to the cemetery.
Military graveside rites were conducted by the Du Quoin V.F.W. and American Legion.
Burial was in the Sunset Memorial Park at Du Quoin.
Friends may make memorials to the Alzheimer's Association and will be accepted at the funeral home.
Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin was in charge of arrangements.
For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.