Shirley June Roach

ROACH, Shirley J.
Of Kalamzoo Shirley June Roach, born December 4, 1926 in Zanesville, Ohio to the late Harry and Mary Summers, passed peacefully April 28th, 2010. Shirley and Robert Friend Roach, who preceded her in death, were married in 1950. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Kalamazoo for more than 50 years. She served as a Deacon and enjoyed spending many hours volunteering in the food pantry and church. Her first job was with the Bell telephone company. She worked many years at Suburban Drugs in Parchment. Shirley was an outstanding mother. She encouraged her children to take advantage of every opportunity. She always made sure her children had a nutritious breakfast and most nights the entire family would sit down together for a home cooked meal. She loved to bake and share her goodies. She used to joke that she could smell a bakery a mile away. Shirley had a smile for everyone and always saw the good in people. Her laughter was infectious and full of joy. Even as Alzheimer's robbed her of her memories, she always remained cheerful and kind to everyone. She loved the snow and couldn't wait to pull on her boots and put on her hat, so she could rush outside and shovel the driveway. She also enjoyed walking her dog in the woods. Surviving Shirley are her 4 children, Robin Patrick Lappin of San Diego, CA, Robert Roach of Kalamazoo, Thad May Roach of Commerce Township, MI, and Patricia Todd McGregor Roach of Portage. Also surviving are 2 brothers, James Minnie Summers of Plano, TX and Rick Linda Summers of Crowley, TX, 7 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. Shirley was preceded in death by three brothers, Harry, Gary, and Francis Summers, and a daughter in-law, Denise Roach. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sue's Loving Care, 2827 Courtlandt Ave. Kalamazoo, MI 49004 or First Presbyterian Church in Kalamazoo. Visitation will be held from 12:30 to 1:30 on Saturday, May 15 at the First Presbyterian Church, 321 W. South Street. A private family service will follow.