ROBERTS, JR., Clarence Z. Age 81, born on March 25, 1932. Better known as “Zeb” to both friends and business associates from childhood onward. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Jan; and is survived by his wife of some 59 years, Carolyn; sons, Steve of St. Louis and Wes (Laurie) of Dallas; daughter, Leslie (John) Southwood of Nashville; and grandchildren, John Southwood III, Allyson Southwood and Lexie Dierker.
Born in Birmingham and a resident of Nashville since the mid 1950’s, he was a graduate of Auburn University where he was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity.
He was employed by the international management consulting firm of Kurt Salmon Associates, following his graduation in 1953 until his retirement in 1990. He advanced to the position of Vice President and Regional Manager while also serving as account executive to a number of Apparel Industry clients in this country, Canada, and the Carribbean. Together with his British colleagues, he pioneered in the application of micro-computers to manufacturing productivity, quality control, and work measurement. He was a founding member of The Insitute of Management Consultants, and participated in the management development programs at Emory and Vanderbilt Universities. He conducted a number of industry seminars, and was a frequent contributor to technical trade journals.
His hobbies were sailing as a young adult and golf throughout his retirement years. He was a charter member of Harbor Island Yacht Club, and a long-time member of both Hillwood Country Club and Hillwood Presbyterian Church.
It was his request that his passing be observed without ceremony. Donations may be made to Hillwood Presbyterian church or to the charity of one’s choice.
View Zeb’s obituary in The Tennessean by clicking here.
Carolyn Crawford Roberts passed away on September 26, 2014. View Carolyn’s obituary in The Tennessean by clicking here.