Royce Allen Yoder

Obituary for Royce Allen Yoder
November 23, 1933 – July 7, 2025
Royce Allen Yoder, 91, of Longview, Texas, peacefully passed into the presence of his Savior on July 7, 2025. He was born on November 23, 1933, in Goshen, Indiana, to John and Mabel Yoder.
Royce was raised on the family farm in Indiana, where he learned the values of hard work, humility, and faith – virtues that would guide him throughout his life. He graduated from Nappanee High School and shortly afterward traveled to Peru on a mission trip led by R.G. LeTourneau, serving as a mechanic to maintain and repair vehicles used in the construction of a remote road. It was there, in the heart of the mission field, that he met the love of his life, Nancy – a meeting divinely orchestrated, marking the beginning of a lifelong love.
He then returned to the States to attend LeTourneau College in Longview, Texas, where he earned a degree in electrical engineering. A gifted mechanic and engineer, Royce began his career working with heavy equipment and later dedicated over five decades to R.G. LeTourneau, Inc., where he contributed to the development of offshore oil rigs. He served as Manager of Marine Electrical Systems, overseeing critical engineering work that supported the company's global operations. In recognition of his exceptional dedication and craftsmanship, he was honored with a 50-year service award from the company. In 2018, Royce was inducted into the LeTourneau University Academy of Engineering & Engineering Technology, a distinction awarded to alumni who have demonstrated outstanding achievement and service in the field of engineering.
More than his professional accomplishments, Royce's legacy is one of faith, family, and service. He was a devoted husband to Nancy (Merino) Yoder for 64 years. Together, they raised three children: Glenn Yoder; Karen Wiersig (husband Jon); and Andrew Yoder (wife Josy). He was a proud grandfather to Courtney Oglesby (husband Greg), Camille Zimmerman (husband Matt) and Caleb James Yoder; and a loving great-grandfather Cole Allen Oglesby, Claire Elizabeth Oglesby, Chase Robert Oglesby, and Charles Royce Zimmerman.
Royce's life was deeply rooted in his faith in Christ. He was a long-time member and elder at both Pinewood Alliance Church and later Longview Christian Church, where he also served on the missions team. His and Nancy's commitment to the local church, to missionary care, and to supporting college students was unwavering. Scripture memorization was a daily spiritual discipline, and Royce served as the spiritual leader of his family with quiet strength and deep conviction.
Music was the window to his soul. Whether through hymns or cherished gospel songs, he often expressed his love for the Lord in melody. Known for his remarkable work ethic and gentle spirit, he poured his life into mentoring younger coworkers, encouraging others in their walk with Christ, and showing up fully present in the lives of those he loved. He believed in building relationships that outlasted time.
Royce is survived by his wife, Nancy Yoder; his children and their spouses; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his sisters Lorene Bowser, Marlene Miller, and Theda Mast. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mabel Yoder, and his brother Kenneth Yoder.
A time of visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 12th at Rader Funeral Home in Longview, Texas. A memorial service celebrating Royce's life and faith will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel. Immediately following the service, family and friends are invited to a committal service at Rosewood Park Cemetery, where Royce will be laid to rest in the sure and certain hope of the resurrection to eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Flowers may be sent to Rader Funeral Home in Longview, Texas, or memorial donations may be made to Our Daily Bread Ministries in honor of Royce's faith and legacy https://www.odbm.org/en/donation.
"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things."
-Philippians 4:8