Victor James Roberts

Victor was born on June 23, 1934, in the McFie District of St. Ann, Jamaica, to Michael Roberts and Lucille Frazier-Roberts. He was one of seven children—five boys and two girls—and he outlived them all, carrying their memory with him throughout his life.

Known affectionately as "Vic" or "Uncle Vic" to those close to him, Victor was a man of boundless energy, ambition, and heart. His early education was at Eccleston All Age School in Aboukir, St. Ann, before he set out to chart a course of his own. After graduation, he moved to Old Harbor in St. Catherine, Jamaica, to join his older sister Nettina and cousin Winne. It was here that his journey of exploration and hard work began.

Victor’s innate curiosity and drive eventually led him to England in the early 1960s. He settled first in Rugby, then later in Birmingham and Handsworth. In England, Victor found his rhythm—working as a painter and factory worker, while also running his own taxi service. He expanded his horizons further, becoming a driver of large tractor-trailers, delivering goods and materials across England, Scotland, and Wales. But even that wasn’t enough for Victor; his adventurous spirit urged him to go beyond, to explore more, to see more of the world.

After several visits to the United States, Victor made the bold decision to settle here permanently. He first lived in New York, then Virginia, and later found his final home in Palm Bay, Florida. In New York City, he resumed his taxi business, but he was not content to simply drive. Victor pursued further education and enrolled in a trucking program in Maryland, where he trained to become a truck mechanic and operator. Upon graduating, he worked for several trucking companies, hauling goods across states and even into Canada. His dream of owning his own trucking company finally came true when he purchased his own truck and became an independent contractor, a feat that brought him immense pride and satisfaction.

But of all the journeys Victor embarked upon in his lifetime, none were more fulfilling than the one he took with the love of his life, Claudette Marlene Bergs. They met in Virginia, and their connection was instant. On April 20, 1998, they were married, and their love story remained strong until his passing. Victor often spoke of how Claudette changed his life for the better, encouraging him to take bold steps, including the decision to buy his first truck. It was clear to all who knew them that they were a perfect pair—her steady love and his vibrant energy.

Victor’s life was one of joy, laughter, and a deep sense of community. Wherever he went, he was the life of the party—his infectious personality and enthusiasm made him a beloved figure to all who crossed his path. Whether he was winning dance-offs or making everyone around him laugh, Victor’s presence was felt in every room he entered. His sharp sense of style and flair for showmanship only added to his charm. He had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel welcome, seen, and appreciated.

Victor leaves behind his beloved wife, Claudette, his son James, his stepson Colin, numerous nieces, nephews, and a large extended family of friends and loved ones who will forever remember his vibrant spirit, his infectious smile, and his unshakable zest for life. Victor’s life was a testament to resilience, to the power of dreaming big, and to the importance of cherishing those who matter most. His energy, kindness, and laughter will be missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on, a source of inspiration and love for years to come.

Rest in peace, Vic. You were truly one of a kind, and you will be dearly missed.