Mary Joan Roberts

Mary Joan Roberts, 97, a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 30, 1927, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Mary Jo led a life filled with compassion, creativity, and joy.

From a young age, Mary Jo cultivated a strong foundation of values at St. Catherine and St. John Academy. These formative years shaped her unwavering dedication to family, which became her paramount pride and joy. As a matriarch, she committed herself wholeheartedly to taking care of her loved ones, creating a nurturing environment that was a haven of laughter and love.

Mary Jo married Jim Roberts on June 21, 1947, at St. Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church. Their union lasted 75 years, and they danced into their diamond jubilee. Their legacy was the values of family and faith. Their love produced their 5 children Becky, Mark, Joni, Nancy, and Rosemarie.

Mary Jo’s steadfast beliefs made her a faithful member of St. Roch Catholic Church. Her spirit of community and faith was evident in every aspect of her life. She found solace in her church and built meaningful relationships with its congregation. It was here that she drew strength and shared her joys with others, exemplifying her deep-rooted devotion.

Throughout her life, Mary Jo reveled in various interests that brought her immense happiness. With a keen eye for fun and connection, she spent hours playing bridge and cards with friends and family. Sports were another source of joy for her, whether playing or watching, as they provided an opportunity for connection and celebration with loved ones.

Mary Jo’s proudest accomplishments were her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed many joyous vacations and lively holidays with her family. Mary Jo and her husband Jim shared a love of dancing, bowling, and golfing outings with family and many friends. Each occasion allowed her to share her vibrant spirit with those she loved, making memories that would last a lifetime. Her laughter and warmth lit up every room she entered, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Mary Jo is survived by her children Becky (Mark) Adolay, Mark (Connie) Roberts, Joni (Chuck, deceased) Carroll, Nancy (Mark) Storey, and Rosemarie (Bert) Stahley, sister Cathy (Phil) Campbell, 17 grandchildren, 56 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband James Roberts, parents, Leonard and Rose Kelly Sauer, siblings, Betty Dawson, Sonny Sauer, Jerry Sauer, Rosemarie Gregg, Duffy Sauer, Guerin Sauer, and Jack Sauer

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025, at St. Roch Catholic Church in Indianapolis. The day will begin with a gathering of family and friends at 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 1:30 PM  to honor her legacy.  Mary Jo leaves behind a wealth of cherished memories, a legacy built on love, and an everlasting influence on those who knew and adored her.

Memorials in Mary Jo's name may be made to St. Roch Catholic Church (3600 S. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis, IN 46227) or the Catholic Youth Organization (580 Stevens St., Indianapolis, IN 46203).

Services entrusted to O'Riley - Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, 6107 S. East Street, Indianapolis, IN 46227.

Please visit www.ORileyBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.

Though she has departed from this world, Mary Jo will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends, her spirit beautifully intertwining with their lives. As we reflect upon her life, we celebrate the joy, love, and light she brought to each day.