John Patrick Roberson

John P. Roberson, 57, died at his home Monday, Sept 25. He was a long time employee of the Coastal Heritage Society and a master blacksmith.

In the almost 40 years that John was a key staff member of the Coastal Heritage Society, he was a part of many efforts of great importance to the preservation and interpretation of southern coastal historical sites. Some of his more notable achievements are: restoring the battery of cannons at Old Fort Jackson into firing condition, preserving cannons from the CSS Georgia, and taking part in the excavation that discovered the ruins of the Springfield Redoubt which was the focal point of the 1779 Storming of Savannah.

He was deeply involved in the mission of the Coastal Heritage Society and one of its most reliable assets. His passing will leave a wide gap in the daily function of the organization and in the hearts of his friends and colleagues.

He was preceded in death by his father, David and his brother, Steve.  Surviving arehis mother, Shirley Roberson; brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Vickie Roberson; sisters, Mary Day and Lizzy Johnson; and several nieces and nephews.

There will be a celebration of life at Old Fort Jackson, his true home, on Oct 2nd at 6pm.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Coastal Heritage Society 303 MLK Dr. Savannah, GA 31401.