James Boyd Roe was born on November 19, 1930 in Sulphur, Oklahoma to Phernie Ray and Annie Lee (Larrabee) Roe and peacefully passed to his Heavenly Home on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at Abba Care Assisted Living of Garland, Texas.
James was the second of three sons born to Ray and Annie Lee. Along with his brothers Ben and Earl, the family lived in southern Oklahoma, first in Dougherty and later in Marietta. James graduated from Marietta High in 1949. He worked for the Marietta Monitor newspaper during and after high school.
In 1951, James enlisted in the Navy and served at a naval base in Japan during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1955 and returned to Oklahoma and learned typesetting at a trade school. The enduring themes of James' life - faith and family – began to take shape. James was baptized into Christ in 1956 and began a life long walk with the Lord. He married the love of his life, Geneva Rose on July 5, 1956.
James and Geneva lived in Jacksboro, Texas until 1961 after which they moved to Mesquite, Texas and bought their first home. James began a 34 year long career at Southern Methodist University printing department as a typesetter. He was an avid football fan, holding season tickets many years. After retirement, he worked part time another 14 years on campus.
James was a member of the Duncanville Church of Christ and active in service to other Dallas area congregations over the years. He cherished his many Christian friendships which he formed over his lifetime.
James is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 47 years Geneva, his parents, and brother Ben Roe.
James is survived by: his son and wife Terry and Karen Roe of Garland, Texas; daughter Robyn McKinney of Grapevine, Texas; three granddaughters and their spouses, Brittny and Eric Bryan of Canton, Texas, Alison Sallee and fiance Matt Beal of Oskaloosa, Iowa and Chrystie and Justin Gibbs of North Richland Hills, Texas; three grandsons Andrew Roe of Sisters, Oregon, Michael Roe of Dallas ,Texas and James Roe (namesake) of Garland, Texas; two great-granddaughters Graycie and Ryleigh Bryan; and three great grandsons Oliver and Owen Gibbs and Vincent Sallee; one brother, Earl Roe of Tyler, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Family will receive friends starting at 10AM on Saturday, January 23, 2021, at Eastgate Funeral Home, 1910 Eastgate Drive, Garland, Texas. A private graveside service will follow.