Roy "Blue" Young

Roy "Blue" Young, a beacon of light and love in the lives of all who knew him, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, in Gainesboro, TN. Born on June 24, 1937, in Jackson County, TN, Roy was a man of integrity, kindness, and unwavering faith, whose interesting life and gentle spirit left an indelible mark on his community.

A devoted family man, Roy is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Essie Young of Gainesboro, TN; his daughters, Donna Young and Rita (Jimmie) Strong, both of Gainesboro, TN; his brothers Jerry (Joann) Young of Gainesboro, TN, and Sheldon (Lori) Young of Cookeville, TN. His legacy continues through his adored grandchildren, Casey (Brandon) Garrison of Cookeville, TN, Tianna Strong, and Delenn Strong, both of TN; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Collin and Brody Garrison of TN. Roy was a pillar of strength for his extended family, including sisters-in-law Ruth Young of Cookeville, TN, Sheila Young of PA, Phyllis Young and Lois Burroughs of Gainesboro, TN, and a host of nieces and nephews who survive him. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Burton, Ray, and Bruce Young; son-in-law Ben Young; brother-in-law Sam Bragg; sister-in-law Cathy Bragg; brother and sister-in-law Donald and Dorothy Burris; sister-in-law: Betty Young of WV and Nan Young of TN; nephews: Terry Bragg and Alan Burris; and niece: Lisa Young.

Roy's dedication to his country was evident through his honorable service in the United States Navy. Enlisting in May of 1956 and reenlisting in November 1960, Roy served as a Machinist's Mate (MM3) aboard several destroyers, including the USS Charleston, USS Interrupter, USS Tracer, and USS Hull. His final station assignment was at the Naval Shipyard in Norfolk, VA. Roy took great pride in his military duties, especially as a military policeman, and was the recipient of numerous awards for good conduct and Company Barracks. His role as an Honor Guard leader and gunman during the internment ceremonies of fellow service members' families was a duty he performed with honor and respect.

Roy's Christian faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was a faithful member of Center Grove Church of Christ, where he served as an Elder for 17 years. His commitment to his faith community extended to teaching Bible Class for teenagers, leading songs, aiding with Bible Bowl, and engaging actively with the youth group. His love for the church and its members was as profound as it was enduring.

An avid University of Tennessee football fan and NASCAR enthusiast, Roy's interests were as vibrant as his personality. He relished playing rook and watching Westerns, finding joy in the simple pleasures of life. However, it was his role as "PaPa" that he held most dear, a title that filled him with immense pride and joy.

Roy "Blue" Young will be remembered as a man who lived a life full of faith, love, and service. His unwavering commitment to his family, his country, and his God exemplified the virtues of an honorable life well-lived. As we say farewell to a true gentleman, we take solace in knowing that his legacy will live on in the hearts and memories of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 4-8PM and again on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 10AM to 1PM at Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the chapel of Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home with Bro. Mike Fox, Bro. John Mabry and Bro. Jimmy Anderson officiating. Burial will follow in Birdwell Cemetery.

The Young Family would like to extend a special thank you to all the family and friends that assisted Roy and his family during his illness.

Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931) 268-1550