Mr. Joe Lee Roberts Jr. was born on June 25, 1925 in Memphis, TN to the union of Joe and Hattie Roberts Sr. Three children  were born to this union. Joe was the middle child and was affectionately known as "Brother" to his family. His parents, his sister, Freida Howard, and his brother, Lonnie Roberts, all preceded him in death.

Joe received his formal education in the public school in Illinois. After leaving school, he joined the United States Navy. Joe faithfully served his country and was awarded an honorable discharge. Upon leaving the service, Joe worked as a butcher in the Amour Packing House. Later he joined his father in the family business at Lee's Wash Rack. He ran a successful business for over 60 years before retiring.

Joe was united in holy matrimony to the love of his life Ophelia R. Mathis on July 24, 1950. Joe and Ophelia, whom he affectionately called "Shot", has six children born to their union: Joe "Junie" Roberts III, Veronica "Ronnie" Eiland, Victoria "Vicki" Gibson, Harriet "Rita" Jackson, Nancy "Mechelle" Moore, and Linda Roberts. Joe was preceded in death by his wife , Ophelia, and their two daughter Linda and Rita.

Joe always had a strong faith in God. And that faith led him to join Mt. Pigsah Missionary Baptist Church early in his life. Later in life, Joe became a Jehovah's Witness in 2005 and was baptized on August 12, 2006

On the night of Thursday, July 8, 2021 , Joe quietly and peacefully slipped away surrounded by his loved ones. He will be deeply missed. He leaves to mourn, but cherish his memory, his children, Joe, Ronnie, Vicky, and Mechelle; his 18 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.