GRESHAM – The family of a man arrested for shooting his wife to death last weekend says John Roberts killed his sick wife out of mercy.

Police photo

John L Roberts

Virginia Roberts, 51, suffered from Lou Gehrig's disease and her condition had worsened over the last few months, according to her husband's brother, Greg Roberts.

John Roberts' family told KGW it stands behind him.

Family members said John Roberts took good care of his ailing wife and turned down job offers in order to take care of her.

Background: Man arrested for killing his wife

They described Virginia Roberts as a loving person who had a lot of pride. Her family is in Guatamala.

Saturday morning, John Roberts, 51, called 911 from northeast Portland to report that he had killed his wife.

He was lodged in jail on a murder charge.