Ralph E. Roach

Ralph Eugene Roach passed away July 8th, 2025.

He was born October 28th, 1940, in Mascot, Tennessee to parents Fred and Pauline Roach.

Ralph grew up in and around Knoxville, Tennessee and often recounted all the mischief he and his older brother Kenneth played on each other and just about anyone who crossed them. He graduated from Carter High School, taught his English class his senior year and was the High School Drum Major.

Ralph joined the Army out of High School at the age of 17. He served two tours in Vietnam in 1968 and 1970. He received numerous awards for his service including two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star. Ralph proudly served his country in the United States Army for over 20 years, until retiring in 1980. He then had another career writing technical manuals for the military as a civilian employee until he retired again in 2000.

On May 18th of 1962 Ralph married his “better half”, E. Jean Rolen. They shared 63 wonderful years together. He and Jean were sealed for all time and eternity as a family in the LDS Salt Lake City Temple on April 15th, 1969.

Ralph was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

Ralph was a strong, charismatic and giving gentleman, always engaging others and the life of any event. He enjoyed reading, genealogy, politics (as long as it was his) and the military.

Ralph is survived by his wife Jean; his children Bryan K Roach, Kimberley A (Pawlecki), and Kevin S. Roach. Ralph was preceded in death by his first and oldest son Mark D. Roach. He had 10 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren

Visitation will be Tuesday July 15th, at Flanner Buchanan Memorial Park from 11-1pm. His funeral will begin at 1pm. He will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery.

To view Mr. Roach's service virtually, please use this link.