H. Roberta King

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of a wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend. H. Roberta King passed away on March 17, 2026, at the Saint John Regional Hospital.  Born on August 22, 1938, in Saint John, she was the daughter of the late Hatheway and Ethel (Coates) Haines. 

Roberta was a woman whose compassion, selflessness, and quick wit were as legendary as her caramel cones and Skor bar squares. Her good-hearted spirit was contagious, as she could find the punchline in any situation. She would take every opportunity to tell you her favourite joke or limerick, and those who knew her would often hear her favourites about the woodpecker, the university poetry contest using “Timbuktu,” or being a Newfie wannabe. 

For those who met her, it was only a matter of time—usually about two minutes—before she asked where you grew up, and where you went to school. A fiercely proud Vocational School Alumna, she made it her personal mission to ensure everyone she encountered knew her love of VOC. Her loyalty wasn't just talk as she volunteered with the Vocational School Alumni Association for many years, keeping her treasured school community connected.

In her younger years, Roberta was a force to be reckoned with on the bowling lanes. An avid bowler, her talent took her all the way to Montreal for the Canada-wide Tournament of Roses, where she famously won a 1967 Ford Mustang.  Her competitive and social spirit didn't stop at the bowling alley; she was a lifelong card player and an enthusiastic crafter. Her love for making things led her to her treasured “Ladybugs” crafting group, where she shared many hours of laughter, creativity, and friendship.

The years did not slow Roberta down. After moving to Smythe St, she continued to be busy with activities at the museum and card games in her building. Roberta also loved the hustle and bustle of cruise ship season. She could often be found walking through Market Square greeting passengers and offering directions, or enjoying the entertainment on the boardwalk. 

Above all the hobbies and community ties, Roberta’s greatest joy was found in the laughter and love she shared with those closest to her. Her legacy of kindness and humour lives on through the family she cherished so deeply.

Roberta will be dearly missed by her two children Susan Downing and Scott King (Julia). She was “Ninny” to her grandchildren Laura (Brandon) and Alex (Heather), and “Nanny Bobbie” to great-grandchildren Lincoln, Levi, Theodore and Oliver Laskey.  She will also be greatly missed by sister Alice Manzer as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.  Aside from her parents, Roberta was predeceased by five brothers, Eugene (Evie), Weldon (Miriam), Hazen, Sterling (Margaret) and James (Marg), and father of her children, friend, and her “old honey” Doug King. 

A celebration of life will take place at Branch 69 Legion, 714 Wilson St, Saint John, NB E2M 3V2, Sunday March 22, 2026, from 1-3pm.