Roy Lee Foye

One of ten children, Roy Lee Foye, was born to the late Leroy Foye and Mary Geneva Stancil Foye. Roy Lee, as he was affectionately called, attended Richard B. Harrison School;however, as he matriculated through, he discovered that his true passion for learning would not come from the classroom, but from the things that interested him the most at an early age. Which was a thirst and quest to have a deeper understanding of the things that intrigued him the most, his historical background and a sincere appreciation of history overall. He was a man of extraordinary skill, Roy Lee was known for his unique craftsmanship, kind-hearted nature, the ability to always relate life in simple terms that would make you go ‘hum’ and an unwavering work ethic.

Born on February 20, 1946, in Selma, North Carolina, Roy Lee's journey through life was one that was defined not by traditional education but by his hands-on experiences and dedication to his craft. Roy Lee's natural talent and determination led him to become a master craftsman, building and restoring all types of furniture with unparalleled precision. Roy Lee’s anointed hands were his most trusted tools. He would often say, “I love what I do, it’s not work to me, I don’t feel like I’m working.” because his work was not just a job, but a passion, and he took immense pride in every piece he crafted. His work will be his legacy, and his creations will continue to stand as a testament to his skill and passion.

In addition to his craftsmanship, Roy Lee had a deep love for collecting artifacts. From antiques to rare objects, his collection spanned decades and told the story of his curious mind and deep appreciation for history. Roy Lee’s keen eye for detail and his appreciation for the past made him a collector who valued the beauty in what others often overlooked, which led him to spendmuch of his time scouring antique shops and flea markets, in search of the rarest finds. His collection was not only a hobby but a reflection of his love for the past and the stories it held. For those who shared his passion, Roy Lee was a wealth of knowledge, always eager to share the story behind each piece.

In his final stages of life, Roy Lee was cared for with immense love and devotion by his niece, Velody Foye-Byrd, along with her loving husband, Rodney, and their daughter, Sloane. The Byrd family provided unwavering care and compassion to Roy Lee, and their presence was a great source of solace for him. The bond they shared will be remembered as one of deep affection, respect, and familial love.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Christopher Bernard Foye of Durham, NC, Dr. Ondulla Foye Toomer (Howard) of Apex, NC, Lestee Foye of Kenly, NC, Gwen Jackson of Dunn, NC, and Kathy Douglass of Smithfield, NC; two sisters, Alice Faye Minter of Bowie, MD and Ophelia Trumilla Armstong (James) of Greensboro, NC; one brother, Robert Lee Foye of Pine Level, NC; his grandchildren, great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, others connected through family ties and friends who will miss him deeply.

Roy Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy Foye and Geneva Stancil Foye, one son, Tommy Sanders and his siblings, Edward Foye, John Daniel Foye, Doris Foye, Helen C. Foye, Shirley Foye Faison, and Rudy Lee Foye.

Roy Lee’s memory will live on through the work he created the pieces he touched and the love he so freely gave. Rest in peace, Roy Lee. We will carry your memory with us always.