Columbus, OH – Paul J. “Jim” Roberts, 86, (Jan. 15, 1937 – Nov. 2, 2023) of Wapakoneta formerly of Spencerville, died at 2:35 a.m. on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at his residence following an extended illness.

Paul J. “Jim” Roberts. Photo courtesy of Bayliff Funeral Home.

He was born on January 15, 1937 in Spencerville, a son of Enos and Edna (Harter) Roberts, who are deceased. On February 5, 1955, he married Danelda Whetstone, who survives and together they had 17 children. While raising their children, Jim helped on the farm and had a couple different jobs throughout his life, but retired from General Dynamics as a millwright and welder.

Paul enjoyed hunting, fishing and especially horse racing. He loved to help farming but most of all loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Danelda; sixteen children, William (Sheryl) Roberts of Mendon, Joseph (Diane) Roberts of Spencerville, Carl (Mary) Roberts of Spencerville, Diane Schnell of Fairborn, Mark (Sharon) Roberts of Spencerville, Jeff (Kim) Roberts of Ashville, Janet (Dave) Ball of Spencerville, Kenny (Tammy) Roberts of Spencerville, Jane (Gary) Swint of Spencerville, Jean (Bob) Hasson of Spencerville, Paula (Denny) Veatch of Port St. Lucie, FL, Teresa (Doug) Stout of Spencerville, Pamela (Scott) Brown of Spencerville, Dennis (Tabitha) Roberts of Greenville, Andy (Tennile) Roberts of Spencerville, Carol (Bryan) Seffernick of Celina; thirty-six grandchildren; fourty-five great grandchildren; seven great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Paul was preceded in death by his parents; son, Timothy; grandchild, Loren; great grandchild Joseph; seven siblings, Ruth McDonough, Joline McGowen, Annie Rhoades, Max Roberts , Vince Roberts, Richard “Dick” Roberts and infant Nellie Roberts.

There will be a visitation from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 6, 2023 at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 7, 2023 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Spencerville with Father Dennis Walsh officiating. Burial will take place following the service at Spencerville Cemetery. Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville is caring for Paul and his family. In honor of Paul, preferred memorials may be given to the Wapakoneta Rescue Squad or Hospice.

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