Roy Shoemaker, Jr.

April 3rd, 1930 - March 7th, 2022

Roy's Memory Wall

We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Roy here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.

Dear Elaine, Marina (Lori RIH), Jeff, and family,

I was saddened to hear of the passing of Roy. I have known Roy since I was a little girl attending St. A’s. My brother as in the same grade as Lori. Roy and Elaine are a stable influence and servants of God at St. A’s. Roy was a gentle giant to a little girl. He was always welcoming with a hug and a smile. He was an excellent singer and my favorite song of his was “Were you there when they crucified my Lord?” Every Good Friday, I looked forward to hearing that song. May he rest in peace with his beloved daughter Lori. God’s Peace.

Kathleen Haslwanter (Westerby)

April 15th, 2022 at 12:46pm

Dennis and I were so sorry to hear about Roy's passing. So glad to hear that he was surrounded by family. Family meant so much to him, not just his but ours as well. He was so helpful to us when Dennis had his heart attack. I could never repay him for his thoughtfulness as well as yours, Elaine. We were lucky to have known him and to have shared your home on the lake so many years ago. Please know that you are loved and we are sorry for your loss.

Dennis and Liz Okon

March 25th, 2022 at 11:02am

I am saddened at the passing of Roy and extend my sincere condolences to Mrs Shoemaker, Marina & Jeff and their family. I was fortunate to have worked and learned from Roy at Heath Company right out of college. What a wonderful example to learn from. A true gentleman in every sense of the word and he always encouraged me to grow as a person. Roy’s example was a primary motivator for my lifelong United Way involvement over 40+ years at every career stop. Roy’s welcoming nature toward others have guided me as I have raised a family, managed a career and navigated retirement. May the wonderful memories be of comfort to his family. RIP Shoe.

Bob Pinkston

March 19th, 2022 at 6:55pm

He was my Godfather. His beautiful voice filled the church at my sister’s wedding some 30 years ago. He gave great hugs and always a welcoming smile to everyone. Standing at an awesome height of about 6’4”, Dad was never intimidating but loving, honorable, and respectful. Those who knew him received a gift that will last a lifetime. If I had never taken piano lessons from “Mom” Elaine, I would have missed an opportunity to know this amazing servant of God. Thank you God, for your son Roy. We will enjoy and celebrate his legacy forever. Amen

Cheryl Edwards

March 13th, 2022 at 11:22am

Roy ‘s best quality and most distinguished attribute was his awesome sense of humor. I worked with Roy for 20 years at Heath and he always had a funny story or a good joke to share with the employees. His sense of humor was priceless and so the Heath Credit office took advantage of his good humor and his nature of being a good sport with practical jokes successfully pulled on him. Practical jokes on people are tricks that confuse or scare someone for a short time. Roy‘s reaction was priceless and fun to watch. He would say, “ I don’t get mad, I get even.” But he never did! One particular prank that worked well was associated with the company securing guards at the exits and all bags were checked when employees left work. Roy had a winter coat with at least a dozen inside and outside pockets. We filled them up with rubber bands and staged a collusion and agreement with a guard to ask to see Roy ‘s pockets. At the door when the guard asks Roy to empty his pockets, Roy said with a smirk, “You are now checking coat pockets?” Yes sir said the guard with a straight face. As Roy started opening and pulling out hundreds of tiny rubber bands his astonished face turned red overwhelmed at such a ridiculous discovery. He soon started laughing so hard that his tears were running down his face. I am sorry that other than the guard, I was the only one to witness this buffoonery. Roy said that even after he had dry cleaned his jacket, he was still finding rubber bands. Roy made the world a better place. He will be missed by many but his friendship will never be forgotten. God promised that whatever is done for the least of your brothers and sisters is done for God. Roy has served God by willingly providing for the needs of others by extending himself in all that is love and kindness. Roy, may we live our lives by your example! Rest In Peace my Friend!