Roger Deal

Roger Wesley Deal

Boylston - Roger Wesley Deal- a man of faith, people, and music- died Sunday, July 19, 2020, in Boylston, Massachusetts, with loving family at his side. He was 87.

Roger was born December 13, 1932, in Peoria, the son of John and Mary Deal. He was the eldest of four children, including brother John and sisters Theola, Naomi, and Eleanor (who died at birth). Growing up during the Great Depression, Roger was known for his popular, easygoing nature, his talent for playing the trumpet, and his love of playing all sports, especially basketball and softball. At Olivet Nazarene College, he majored in music and became deeply involved in church ministry. He composed spirituals and played the trumpet and piano in places of worship ranging from dusty tent meetings in Midwestern fields to missionary meetings in the hills outside Havana, Cuba. He recorded gospel music, too, including the album A Lovely Song, which featured songs such as "What a Day That Will Be" and "When They Ring Those Golden Bells." He would always keep that love of spirituals. Up until the final days of his life, he was known to sit down at the piano and sing spirituals such as "Just a Closer Walk with Thee."

Roger served on the Boylston school committee and was also elected as a selectman for the town of Boylston, Massachusetts. Long after he ended his years of service, he maintained an unofficial status as Boylston's counselor, always willing to offer words of advice and help when asked.

He is survived by his loving wife Joan, of Boylston, Massachusetts; and his children, Jody Getz, Cathy Segraves, Karen Bach, Daniel Deal, David Deal, Michael Deal, Stephen Deal and his stepson, Howard Rappaport. Roger will also be lovingly remembered by his brother, John (Trudy) Deal, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Calling Hours will be on Thursday, July 23, 2020 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. His Funeral Service will be held privately, but will be "live streamed", and can be viewed on Friday, July 24, at 10 a.m., by visiting he funeral home website and selecting "live services". Interment will be at Pine Grove Cemetery in Boylston.

In accordance with public health guidelines, social distancing and the use of face masks that cover the nose and mouth, will be practiced during services.

In lieu of flowers, donation sin his memory may be made to First Congregational Church-Boylston, 10 Church Street, Boylston, MA 01505.

There is an online register for messages and condolences, it as well as the link for "live stream" can be found at

www.mercadantefuneral.com