Roberta Jean Dake

Roberta Jean Dake was born June 19th, 1949 (Fathers Day) to Paul Clifton Jesse and Hattie Marion Jesse in Moberly, Missouri. She and her twin brother Robert Jesse were the youngest of 8 siblings. They were named after the doctor who delivered them, and raised in Centralia, Missouri.

Roberta graduated from Centralia High School and then completed a secretarial course. She married not long after she took her first job and started her family there. With two boys to raise, Kevin and a few years later, Tom Dake, she devoted her time fully to her family. Moving from Missouri to Colorado, was the start of a series of moves to pursue better opportunities, including in 1984 to southern Indiana. Roberta faithfully raised her boys through their school years in Crothersville, driving them to sports and extra-curricular events. When they got older she went back to full time work outside the home.

Crothersville Public Library patrons will remember her book recommendations and love of mysteries. Many truckers and locals got to know her playfulness and laughter through her years working at Fuel Mart in Austin. Elderly neighbors and acquaintances enjoyed her visits and friendship.

Despite life not always working out as she had dreamed, she remained a very positive person with a hearty laugh and a love for flowers, her cats, her family and the Kansas City Chiefs.

On Wednesday, Oct. 21, Roberta passed away peacefully in palliative care, after suffering from a heart attack and other long term health complications. She is survived by her two sons, one grandson (Asher Dake), her twin brother Robert, and extended family around the country.

While the family is not planning any services in Indiana, and Roberta requested cremation, well wishes can be sent through social media. In lieu of flowers or cards, they request that you remember the elderly, the sick and those who need a friend. They encourage others to follow Roberta’s example and reach out to people you know. Roberta's friendship made a difference to many in her life, and she would be honored to see her unsung acts of kindness paid forward to others as well.