Roy Lee St. John Sr.

Roy Lee St. John, Sr. ascended to his heavenly home on Wednesday May 7, 2025, surrounded by family following a brief illness.
He was born on March 8, 1932, to the late Thomas Charles and Alma Ruth St. John. Six of his siblings: Tommy, Norma, Herbert, Paul, Ruth and Lois, preceded his death. Roy was also preceded in death by his wife, Yvonne M. St. John, his son Lee St. John and his stepson, Randy Haigler, what a homecoming celebration they must be having!
Roy and Yvonne married on November 17, 1973, after a brief courtship, because that is what you do when you find the one. This created their own Brady Bunch, bringing together his three daughters and son, with her four sons, at the most challenging time for parents as the kids were young adults, teens, and pre-teens. But their deep love and faith conquered all as they built a life of 45 years together. He has grieved her deeply since her passing in 2018.
Roy is survived by his three daughters: June (Phyllis), Robyn (Mike), and Lisa (David) and his three stepsons: Ronnie (Lisa), Roger, and Robin. Roy is also survived by his beloved grandson, Colton Haigler, who he and Yvonne raised as their own from his birth. Ten other grandchildren, numerous great and great-great grandchildren also survive him. His brother and sister-in-law, Stan and Judy St. John also survive Roy. He cherished his last "raw oyster dinner" which he enjoyed with Stan and Judy just a couple of weeks ago.
Roy, aka Dad and Papa, was a deeply faithful man. He and Yvonne met at the church that was their spiritual home for the 45 years they were together. They jointly served the University Blvd Church of the Nazarene in many capacities, but the one they are remembered best for is being the greeters for Sunday morning worship services. Dad/Papa was the best hugger, so this job was perfectly suited for him. He was deeply faithful and lived a life that personified his faith. Roy and Yvonne were recognized by the church on March 30, 2014, with a Distinguished Service Award, which they dearly cherished. Roy also played on the church softball team in his younger days and enjoyed that form of fellowship with the guys!
Roy worked hard for 35+ years at Florida Rock, driving concrete trucks and supervising a concrete plant, but then worked another 25 years with one of his stepsons. He was an excellent role model on hard work, loyalty, and treating all with fairness and dignity. He wasn't just Dad or Papa, he was also a friend to us, always listening quietly to our concerns, complaints, and heartaches without judgment but always with that warm hug. He was our biggest and loudest cheerleader in all of our accomplishments! This quote sums up Dad/Papa best: "When he did not have our hands, he had our backs."
A few fun facts about Papa Roy he collected coins, knives and matchbox cars. We think he convinced himself they were for Colton, but we remain unconvinced. His favorite color was purple, which only came to light in the past few years. Therefore, the family requests that anyone attending his memorial service to please wear something purple if you will.
The service to rejoice and celebrate Roy/Dad/Papa will be held Monday May 12, 2025, at the University Boulevard Church of the Nazarene. The viewing will precede the service from 10:00 – 11:00 AM and the funeral service will commence at 11:00 AM, both in the church sanctuary.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the University Blvd Church of the Nazarene or another favorite charity of your choosing in Roy's memory.
The family expresses their sincere appreciation to Vitas Hospice for their loving support they have provided these last few weeks. We specifically want to acknowledge his amazing team of caregivers: Miriel, Marie, Tammy, Felicia, and Katherine.
Services under the care and direction of Moloney-Hewell Funeral Home, (904) 737-4855.