Willie Roach

Willie’s earthly journey began on Tuesday, June 16, 1942 when he was born to Howard Roach and Madeline Elliott in Clarksville, Tennessee. Willie was preceded in death by both of his parents, Bonus mother Hattie Bell Roach, brothers: James “Nite Nite” Roach, Ronnie Roach; sisters: Beulah Lyle, Darlene Elliott, Mary Francis Roach, Lucille Marie “Peanut” Daniels and Evelyn Pinnock.

On Monday, December 1, 2025 Willie answered God’s beckoning call to cease from earthly labor and entered into his master’s joy at Spring Meadows Nursing Home.

Willie received his formal education through the Clarksville Montgomery County School System. He graduated from the historic Burt High School. He was a very versatile and stand-out athlete during his lifetime. He participated in basketball, football and baseball. Willie was a member of the Negro Rockets Semi-Pro Baseball League team that played in Clarksville from the 1940’s to the 1970’s.

Willie enjoyed employment over the years with Elliott Paving and Asphalt Company, Gary Matthews, A+ Used Car Sales & Lotto Express.

He was affectionately called “Bubba” by all who were close to him and knew him well. He lived a very rich life. He enjoyed discussing family history with his relatives. He was a great source of family historical information. He loved to talk and reminisce as he got older and he knew everybody. He never met a stranger. He was a great big brother, protector of his siblings, and relatives. He loved his family very much. Bubba was especially fond of playing the Pick 3 and Pick 4 lottery games. He would sport the biggest grin when he won.

Willie leaves to cherish his memories: brothers Donald and Howard Roach of Clarksville, TN; sisters Livia (Will) Henson of Stafford, VA and Gwendolyn Roache of Clarksville, TN. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.