Roberta R. John, a 64-year-old woman from Canton, OH, tragically passed away on June 12, 2017. She was born on August 29, 1952, and was a retired Director of Special Services for Stow-Munroe Falls City Schools. Roberta was an active member of her community, involved in various organizations, including Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church and the Osnaburg Historical Society.
She is survived by her two sons, Todd Pincombe and Brant Pincombe, and several other family members.
The circumstances surrounding Roberta's death were part of a double homicide. Roberta and her husband, Rogell E. John II, were murdered in their home by George C. Brinkman, who was housesitting for them while they were on vacation. Brinkman, a longtime family friend, shot and beat the couple to death before fleeing with $140 of their cash. He later pleaded guilty to the crimes and was sentenced to death.
The investigation revealed that Brinkman had known the Johns for over a decade and had worked for a company owned by Gene John. On the day of the couple's return from vacation, Brinkman found a handgun Gene owned and later told police he loaded the gun and was playing with it before the couple arrived. When the couple arrived, Roberta began yelling at him, accusing him of neglecting the dog, and Gene asked why his gun was out of the box. Brinkman then shot and killed both Roberta and her husband.
The Stark County Sheriff's Office conducted a thorough investigation, and Brinkman was arrested early the next day. He was later sentenced to death for the murders. The case drew significant attention due to the betrayal by someone who was considered a family friend.
Roberta's death was a tragic and senseless act that deeply affected her family and the community. Her legacy lives on through her contributions to education and her active involvement in various organizations.
