Beth Roten

Sterling resident Beth B. Roten, 40, died March 9, 2009, at her home following a courageous battle with cancer. Her family was by her side.
Mrs. Roten was born Oct. 6, 1968, in Joliet, Ill. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Liberty University. She also took graduate courses from the Institute of Children's Literature. She was a self-employed songwriter and novelist.
Mrs. Roten moved to Alaska with her family in October 2001 and resided in Sterling.
She was a member of the Legacy Christian Center, where she was the church pianist and worship team leader. She enjoyed playing the flute, violin, keyboard and piano. She also enjoyed crocheting blankets for friends and family.
Her family wrote: "Beth and Gary were married in Ashe County, N.C., on Aug. 6, 1988. Beth was a devoted wife and loving mother of two. She was very proud of the accomplishments of her children, Bryan and Courtney."
"She gave her heart to the Lord at an early age and was very passionate in serving Him. Beth was an inspiration to many, especially during her courageous battle against cancer. She will be sorely missed by all the lives she touched."
Mrs. Roten was preceded in death by her brother, Fredrick Joseph "Joe" Blay III; her grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.
She is survived by her husband of 20 years, Gary Roten; children, Bryan and Courtney Roten, all of Sterling; parents, Fred and Dorothy Blay of Jefferson, N.C.; sisters and brothers-in-law, Lynne and Joe Barker of West Jefferson, N.C., Cheryl and Rick Parker of DePere, Wis., LeAnn and Steve Wright and Marcy and Shane Little, all of Crumpler, N.C.; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Memorial donations may be sent to Gary Roten, 36855 Marriot Drive, Sterling, AK 99672.
Arrangements were made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel in Kenai.