Norman Roberts Jr., more commonly known as "Gene," age 82, of Ashland, formerly of Johnson County, passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Kings Daughters Medical Center in Ashland, KY.

He was born on November 14, 1943, in Paintsville, to the late Norman "Payday" and Isabelle Irene Tackett Roberts. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by one brother, Jimmy Grant Roberts, and one son-in-law, Herschel Lawson.

On September 21, 1962, in Paintsville, he married Malta Castle Roberts, who survives. Additional survivors include one son: Norman Keith (Linda) Roberts of Naples, FL; one daughter: Jeannie Lawson of Ashland, KY; three grandchildren: Kaitlin, Michelle, and Noah; three great-grandchildren: Eden, Archie, and Edison.

Norman and Malta spent sixty-three years together. He was born again in 1961 and ordained to preach in 1963. His faith in God has been steadfast and strong. He loved his savior. He was the former pastor of Staffordsville Free Will Baptist Church and the pastor of Hoods Creek FWB Church in Ashland, KY. He worked at Armco Steel for forty-four years and raised his family. Known at work as Fireball Roberts, and he was. Malta was known as Mrs. Fireball. He loved his family and was so thankful he got to meet his three great-grandchildren: Eden, Archie, and Edison. He had so many loving friends along his journey through life. He loved Johnson County. Paintsville has always been his love. He always wanted to be there and now he is. He was a wonderful and loving husband, father, and Pa Pa. He will surely be missed by all.

Funeral Services are scheduled for 1 P.M. Saturday, January 17, 2026, in the chapel of the Jones-Preston Funeral Home with Mike Blanton and Larry Blair officiating. Burial will follow at the Highland Memorial Park Cemetery in Staffordsville. Friends may visit at the Jones-Preston Funeral Home from 6 P.M. until 8 P.M. Friday, January 16, 2026, and on Saturday from 11 A.M. until the time of the funeral services at 1 P.M.

Jones-Preston Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Jones-Preston Funeral Home is both honored and privileged to be entrusted with all final arrangements for Mr. Norman Roberts Jr.