James E. "Jim" Robards, Sr., 91, of Henderson, Kentucky, passed away Sunday, May 12, 2024, at St. Anthony's Hospice Lucy Smith King Care Center.

Born in Sebree, Kentucky, on November 13, 1932, to the late Alvin Jerome and Mary Ruby Robards, Jim served 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, attaining the rank of Technical Sergeant.  After his military career, he worked at Alcan Sebree Aluminum Plant retiring after 18 years.  Jim had a quick wit and a very dry sense of humor that he shared with those around him.  He was a tremendous lover of animals and tolerated people.  Jim was fair and brutally honest - some would say maybe a little too much at times.  But you always knew where you stood with him.  Jim started playing golf when he was in his 70s and fell in love with it; he played a couple times a week for several years and made many great friendships through the sport.  His was a life well lived.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three siblings, T.G. Robards, Jean Chapman, and Al Robards.

Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Pamela Blue Robards; three sons, James E. Robards, Jr., and his wife, Carolyn, of Sylacauga, Alabama, Jeffrey L. Robards and his wife, Cindy, of Henderson, Kentucky, and Jesse Mattox and his wife, Kacie, of Henderson, Kentucky; one daughter, Jodie Conrad and her husband, Pete, of Henderson, Kentucky; one sister, Edith Hillyard of Henderson, Kentucky; nine grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

A memorial celebration will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Hummingbird Hall, 1040 Market Street, Henderson, Kentucky 42420.

Contributions may be made to St. Anthony's Hospice, 2410 South Green Street, Henderson, Kentucky 42420, or New Hope Animal Rescue Center, 526 Atkinson Street, Henderson, Kentucky 42420.

Rudy-Rowland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.rudyrowland.com.