James R. Roe Sr.

James R. Roe, Sr. December 10, 1929- May 15, 2024

JOHNSON CITY - James R. Roe Sr., 94, of Johnson City, TN, passed away on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in his home. He was born December 10, 1929, in Johnson City. This is where he met the love of his life, Mary Price, to whom he married in 1963. They then moved to Genoa, Illinois for an extended time before returning to Johnson City for retirement in 1992.

James worked many different jobs throughout his lifetime. From working in the fields as a child to working various manufacturing jobs as an adult at A.O. Smith in DeKalb, IL and Falls Products in Genoa, IL. He was also a truck driver, milkman, and a security guard. His most acclaimed occupation was Pastor at Calvary Assembly of God in Kingston, IL. Even after he moved back to Tennessee, he frequently preached at several churches. He also shared God's Word at the WETB radio station where they played bluegrass gospel music.

James enjoyed gardening, tinkering with engines and tools, raising animals of any kind (especially his beloved African Grey bird "Maggie"), and being part of a congregation. He also loved being around family and friends; even more so when gathered for a meal. The joke was that he had a "rubber belly" because he could eat from a bottomless plate (except seafood). His spirituality, his craving for vegetables, and his desire to be outdoors fulfilled 94 years.

James is preceded in death by his parents, John and Eva (Miller) Roe; his brothers, J.S., Gene, Joel, and Robert; and sisters, Nettie, Maxine, Alta, Francis, and Almada. He is also preceded in death by his wife Mary Roe, his former spouse Lucille Tipton Roe, and his grandson Michael Westphal.

James is survived by his children James (Carolyn) Roe Jr., Shirley (Richard) Chapman, Deborah (James) Rhodes, Jackie Santiago all of Johnson City, TN, Jerry (Jean) Roe of Chuckey, TN, Norma "Gail" (Ronald) Pate of Gray, TN, Cynthia (Scott) Coleman of Belvidere, IL, and Hope (Michael) Tucker of Sycamore, IL. James also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

The funeral service for James will be conducted Monday, May 20, 2024, from the chapel of Tetrick Funeral Services with Pastor Lenny Smith, officiating. The graveside committal service will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery, Johnson City.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 9:30-11:30 A.M.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Washington County Johnson City Animal Center, 3411 N. Roan St. Johnson City, TN 37601.

The family would like to say a special thank you to David and Theresa Hillard.

This obituary was lovingly written by the family.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www. tetrickfuneralservices.com

Tetrick Funeral Services, 3001 Peoples St. Johnson City, TN 37604, is honored to serve the Roe family (610-7171).