Coach John Iverson Roberts II was born December 23, 1944 to the late Robert Jasper Roberts
and Frances Geraldine Hearn Roberts in Memphis, TN. John received his bachelor's and masters
degrees from Memphis State University.

Arguably the greatest track and field coach the city of Memphis has ever seen, Coach John
Roberts coached and taught for 35 years in the Memphis City School System with an impact that
touched thousands of young lives. Known for his no nonsense attitude, extraordinary work ethic,
and heart of gold, Roberts' impact still remains today as his athletes have excelled and become
professional athletes, teachers, coaches, principals, doctors, lawyers, and a host of other
professions. Starting a career at Snowden Jr. High, Coach Roberts' legacy was only just
beginning as he led the Greenies to track excellence. From there he ventured to the high school
level, where he transformed the Central High boys track team into one of the most successful
teams of all time. In his 25 year legacy with the Warriors, Roberts solidified a tradition of
excellence leading his teams to:

4 State Team Championships (1994,1995,1997,1999)
1 State Team Runner up (2000)
3 State Team Relay Championships (1994, 1995, 1997)
2 State Team Relay Runner Ups (1993,1996)
42 individuals and relay team state champions

Coach Roberts' impact can still be felt as one of his former athletes has continued the legacy by
guiding Central to 4 more state championships. Another former athlete leads the school as the
Assistant Principal. His winning spirit lives on in all of us.

Coach John Roberts is survived by his two sons, Killaurin Roberts and Brilund Roberts; His two
sisters, Sandra Booker and Debra Strickland; and 4 nieces.

A visitation for John will be held Wednesday, December 14th, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
at High Point Funeral Home, 3788 Summer Ave, Memphis, TN 38122. A service to remember
his life will occur at 12:00 PM in the High Point Funeral Home Chapel. A burial ceremony with
military honors will be held at 2:00 PM at West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery, 4000 Forest Hill
Irene Rd, Memphis, TN 38125.

"The ultimate victory in competition is derived from the inner satisfaction of knowing that you
have done your best and that you have gotten the most out of what you had to give." - Coach
John Roberts