Mrs. Roberta Macon

Roberta's Life Journey: Roberta "Josephine" Macon was born on September 15,1938 in Robinsonville, Mississippi to the late Irving and Savannah Milton. Roberta was the youngest of eight children, six have preceded her in death. Roberta has one surviving sibling, Doretha Parker of Detroit, Michigan. Roberta confessed in Christ at an early age. She was a member of New Salem Baptist Church, in Detroit under the leadership of Rev. Nathan Caldwell. She later joined Old Landmark Missionary Baptist Church, under the pastorship of Rev Lenzy Petty, Sr. Roberta was a faithful and devoted member and also served on the Mother's Board. In December 1956, she married her high school sweetheart, Jimmie Wilbert Macon Sr. There were eight children born to this union. Roberta devoted herself to raising her family before continuing her education. She enrolled in Wayne State University, Labor Studies Program. Roberta received her degree in this field and began teaching classes, Labor Laws (local and federal) and Parliamentary Procedures at University of Michigan. Roberta entered the workforce in 1973, employed by Falcon Industries. Roberta then joined the UAW, and was elected shop steward, representing the membership. The plant closed and she was hired by Detroit Diesel and continued her work in union politics and other union affiliations. She was elected to several union leadership roles. Roberta started the first Women's Committee for Local 163, (Detroit Diesel)and also for Local 5960 (GM-Lake Orion). Roberta was a strong union activist. Roberta served on several UAW Regions boards, 1B & 1E. Roberta also served on the UAW Solidarity House Women's Committee. Roberta assisted in establishing several Black labor organizations such as: Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU)-Pontiac Chapter, (also a member of Detroit Chapter); Detroit Association of Black Organizations, (DABO); and helped establish Trade Union Leadership Council (TULC). She directed and participated in numerous union related conferences and workshops. Roberta was a dedicated voter. She served on several political campaigns: Coleman Young, Mayor; Jessie Jackson, U.S. President; Carolynn Cheeks Kilpatrick, State Representative and other local politicians.

Mrs. Roberta Macon

September 15, 1938 - August 5, 2013