Verna Jean Roberts

Verna Jean Roberts, of Clemson, South Carolina, passed away peacefully early in the morning on September 11, at the age of 91. Born on December 2, 1932, in Carmi, Illinois, to Minnie Sarah and Michael Joseph Croghan. Born during the Depression, her family called her their “Sunshine” baby, for she brought joy and laughter to their daily lives. She continued that legacy of bringing joy, love and laughter to all who encountered her for the rest of her life. Preceding her in death - Minnie Sarah Croghan (mother), Micheal Joseph Croghan (father), Marilyn Jo Willard (sister), John William Willard (brother-in-law), Judge Henry Lewis (brother-in-law) and many aunts, uncles and cousins. She is survived by - Dr. James Norman Roberts (husband), Patsy Ruth Lewis (sister), Michael Frank Croghan (brother), Jennifer Gray Roberts (daughter), Julia Ann (Sam) Krentz (daughter) James Brian Roberts (son), Ava Lauren Krentz (granddaughter), Sydney Rose Krentz (granddaughter) and many nieces, nephews and friends. She earned her Music Education Degree from Murray State University, in Murray, Kentucky where she met the love of her life, Dr. Jim Roberts, just recently celebrating their 66th Wedding Anniversary. Vernie was a Public School Music teacher, worked for United Airlines in Chicago ~ that began her lifelong love of travel, taught piano lessons, directed youth and children’s choirs, and also worked as a secretary at Sheffield Industries in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Known as the little lady with the Big voice, she sang with The Madrigal Singers of Detroit, Farmington Musicale, in operas, musicals, church choirs and was always the featured Soprano soloist at Northwestern Baptist Church and Covenant Baptist Church near Detroit, and later Fort Hill Presbyterian Church in Clemson, SC. She always volunteered her time, sharing her many talents and her passion for music by playing piano at nursing homes, hospitals, churches and in several facilities in her assisted-living community in Clemson, SC. Vernie had the gift of hospitality, and was a beloved member of her community, where she touched the lives of all who met her, including so many of the Clemson College students. Known as “Vivi” in her later years, a name given to her by her granddaughter, several of the students put together a book for her on how to stay “hip.” She lived her life as an adventure, and always in motion. She was a faithful walker, snow and water skier and enjoyed the sport of Windsurfing into her 60’s. She loved to travel, explore and entertain. During her South Carolina years she became an avid Clemson Tiger fan, and was often at games, and hosting watch parties. Being a serious Board Game enthusiast, Vivi would invite family, friends, and the Clemson Downs staff to play. She pretty much taught every single employee at Creekside Cottage how to play her favorite games. For years she enjoyed a weekly visit to the local Flea Market and convinced her family whenever in town to take her out for, what she titled, “retail therapy” to all the local second-hand shops.” In fact, many of the shop workers knew her by name. Whenever out and about in Clemson, younger people of all ages would approach her and thank “Miss Vernie” for the impact she made on their lives, most often remembering her as their pre-school Music teacher, but also many of the visiting Clemson students who met her as volunteers at Clemson Downs. Vivi thrived at Clemson Downs thanks to the loving, caring family of staff and community that supported her independence and provided endless opportunities for her to express her musical, creative, funny and adventurous spirit. Our family is forever grateful for their dedicated service, patience, love and support. Despite the challenges she endured over the last couple of years, the broken shoulder, hospital visits, rehab, physical therapy, broken ribs, more rehab….nothing broke her spirit or took away her joy. In fact, everyone she encountered during this period adored her. And, they always let us know - ‘there is No one like Vivi, and we just Love her.” A private family memorial will be held at a later date.

Verna Jean Roberts

December 2, 1932 - September 11, 2024