James "Chibby" Roberts, 39, of Tama, passed away Wednesday, May 8, 2019 at his home. Traditional Graveside Services will be held Friday, May 10, 2019 at 2:00 PM at the Meskwaki Cemetery on the Meskwaki Settlement with Homer Bear Jr. as speaker. A Traditional Wake will be held Thursday evening at Glenn Roberts' Ceremonial Building on the Meskwaki Settlement in rural Tama.

James was born on March 28, 1980, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of Ernest and Iris (Walker) Roberts.

James enjoyed his kids, nieces and nephews and his family. He could always see the bright side to a dark situation. His hobbies included lifting weights and gambling. Everyone said he had a good heart and took care of his friends. Whatever he had, he would give you half. He just wanted to enjoy life.

Survivors include his kids, Jazmyne, James Jr. "J.J.", Nathaniel, Ricky and Nydiah "Gracie"; parents, Ernest and Iris Roberts of Tama; brothers, Ira (Lana) Roberts, Brenton Roberts, Ronnie Roberts, Shawn (Podowwa) Roberts, Ryan Papakee all of Tama and Shannon (Angie) Poafpybitty of Nebraska; and sister, Judith Roberts of Tama.

He was preceded in death by his aunt, Patricia Wolfe; uncle, Emmett Roberts; sister, Patricia Roberts; brothers, Ernest Roberts III and Randolph Papakee Jr.; cousins, Jason Roberts and Reginald C. Walker.