James Albert Roach

UPDATE! FUNERAL DAY AND TIME HAS CHANGED

James Albert Roach, 92, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday,  February 20, 2024 at his granddaughter's home, surrounded by his family.  

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, February 26, 2024, at Wilkerson Funeral Home with Dr. Greg Robertson officiating.  Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service and other times at the home of Brian and Stacey, 600 Boyd Road, Reidsville. 

Albert was born in Rockingham County to the late Ira Crumwell Roach, Sr. and Mary Elizabeth “Lizzie” Puryear Roach.  He met the love of his life in the second grade, Barbara Roberts, they married and shared 71 wonderful years together until she passed away in December 2023.  His sweetheart always came first, but his other greatest love was his family.  Albert loved to spend time outdoors, whether it be working in the yard, camping with his family, or living lake life at Smith Mountain Lake on their pontoon boat.  He had lots of hobbies he enjoyed throughout the years. He had a gift of using his hands for detailed woodworking and later in life working puzzles for family and friends.  He was a heavy equipment operator with NC Department of Transportation for 42 years where he loved his job and co-workers and was greatly admired and respected. He served as a Corporal in the National Guard from 1948 to 1957.  

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Connie Roach; infant granddaughter, Melissa Roach; brother, Ira C. Roach, Jr. and sister, Barbara R. Amoriello.

He is survived by his children, Doug Roach (Sandra), Cindy Roach Romine (Walter) and Penny A. Roach (Keith); grandchildren, Stacey Roach Perkins (Brian) , Derick Roach (Chelsea), Deanna T. Gann, Jamie Townsend, Brian Townsend and Broc Howerton; great grandchildren, Tucker and Trey Perkins, Easton Roach, Tyler Townsend (Breanna), Emma and Griffin Gann, Bryant and Brynn Townsend; brother, Mallory M. Roach; and a large extended family.   

The family would like to extend a special thank you to his granddaughter, Stacey, for taking loving care of both of her grandparents and for she and Brian opening their home to carry out their wishes. In addition, the family would like to acknowledge the staff at Ancora Compassionate Care for their devotion, care, and support given to our entire family.    

Memorial contributions may be made to Ancora Compassionate Care, formerly Hospice of Rockingham County, P.O. Box 281, Wentworth, NC 27375.