Roy Harold Sheets

LeRoy Harold Sheets was born on June 1st, 1943 to Charles and Erma Sheets. He grew up farming with his dad in Millbury, Ohio and graduated from Genoa High School in 1961 along with his classmate Judy Haton. Following graduation, Roy and Judy began to date, starting with a roller rink and introducing her to the farm. The two married on July 5th, 1963.

In 1968, Roy enlisted in the Navy, serving on the USS Grey and the USS Canberra. He experienced two typhoons at sea during his time in the service and received a bronze star and gallantry cross. Roy and Judy also adopted two sons (Troy and Scott) during his time in the military. Following his discharge, they moved back to Ohio and bought a home near Bowling Green.

Roy used the experience he received in the military to secure a job with GTE and he would work in telecommunications the rest of his career. He always had a mechanical mind and would work on his own vehicles and eventually helped build a two-car garage addition to their home. He helped his sons learn basic mechanics as they got older and started working on their vehicles.

He enjoyed experiencing all the modes of travel possible, earning his pilot's license and flying a single engine Cessna, taking the family out on the boat on Lake Erie, cruising around on his Honda Goldwing, and then later in life he purchased what he called his "go to work" car-a Chevy Corvette. Even though he had fun with his big boy toys he also had a faith in Jesus and served in the church. He served as a trustee, assistant treasurer, and as a custodian with Judy.

In 1997 Roy and Judy moved to Doylestown, OH and Roy started a new job. Twelve years later, their lives took a drastic turn after Judy suffered a stroke. Roy determined to take care of his wife at home and the hospital discharged Judy into Roy's care. After a few years, they moved to Millbury (where he grew up) and close to his son Troy and his wife Veronica. Roy continued to care for Judy, embracing the role of caregiver with love and honor. Eventually Judy's care needs required another move, taking them to the Genoa Care Center. In an assisted living apartment, Roy continued to care for his wife as best as he could until her death in 2020. After Judy passed away, Roy reached out and encouraged others in the facility including his cousin Kenny Heins.

Roy loved hearing from and spending time with his two sons and their families. Whether that was a phone call, a visit, or a holiday meal. He always enjoyed connecting with them. Though his physical strength waned with age his heart for his family and others seemed to grow stronger to the end.

He was preceded in death by his wife Judy Sheets; parents Charles and Erma Sheets, brother Charles Erwin Sheets,; brother-in-law Ed Hartbarger; and sister-in-law Elaine Haton.

He is survived by his sons Troy (Veronica) Sheets, Scott (Christy) Sheets; grandchildren Trent, Toby, Elijah, and Abigail; sister Joyce Hartbarger Gage; brothers in law Dale (Rita) Haton, Ralph Haton; and nephews and nieces.

There will be a memorial gathering for family and friends on March 8th.