(August 17, 1938 – March 5, 2025)
Roberta Allain Quarles-Knowles, 86, of St. Croix, passed away peacefully at her home on March 5, 2025. Born in Greensboro, North Carolina, on August 17, 1938, to Vera Bullock Quarles and historian Benjamin Arthur Quarles, Roberta was a devoted educator and cherished family member.
Roberta earned her EdD in English and served as a respected professor at the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI), where she inspired countless students throughout her career. A passionate lover of literature, she also enjoyed film, travel, and maintaining close friendships with her retired UVI colleagues.
Family was at the heart of Roberta’s life. She was deeply devoted to her husband of 58 years, Conrad Knowles, and their beloved son, James Arthur Knowles, who preceded her in death. She is also survived by her sister, Pamela Anne Quarles; nephews, Kweli Zukeri and Kristopher Pourzal; her stepmother who preceded her in death, Ruth Brett Quarles; and a wide network of cousins and extended family members who will carry her memory forward.
Roberta will be remembered for her kind spirit, her dedication to education, and her love for both her family and community. She leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, compassion, and joy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
A viewing for Roberta will be held on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Divine Funeral Services.
The funeral service will take place on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at St. John’s Episcopal Church, historically known as St. Johns Anglican Church in Christiansted Town. The viewing will begin at 9:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 10:00 AM. Interment will take place at Kingshill Cemetery immediately following the service.
