Rebecca Leach Roach's Obituary
Rebecca Leach Roach known as Becky and affectionately as Mimi to her “Grands” passed away Monday, April 5, 2021. She was born September 16, 1944 in Moore County, North Carolina.
Becky was an avid gardener – planting flowers and bushes, tending house plants and enjoying the fresh bouquets her children and grands sent her. She supported all school flower sales from her grandchildren through the years, happily planting those bulbs in her “Grands garden”.
Her love of children, in addition to her own, grew from opening an in-home daycare in the 1970s. In an effort to be a working mother – she combined the two so that she could be home with own children while also caring for many of Albemarle’s youngsters; many of whom continue to keep in touch with her.
After closing the daycare and moving into the public workforce, she found herself at The Stanly County Clerk of Courts where she made lifelong friends and lunch buddies. She especially valued her enduring friendship with Jackie Britt. Even after retiring, she frequently assisted various lawyers which kept her mind busy and friends close by.
Retiring from the Clerk of Court’s office only meant more time to explore her interests. Yoga, Pilates, and swimming were a few of the activities that she pursued, all the while developing friendships through these endeavors. She most especially enjoyed exercising and talking with her “swim ladies.”
Her volunteer days were fulfilling for her as well. She loved working with students at Central Elementary, Victory Junction Camp, the hospital, and Senior Center where she made the most beautiful baskets and met precious friends. These woven baskets hold the treasures of her children and grandchildren, just as the homemade quilts that lie on the backs of her loved ones’ couches.
For years, she was a devoted member of Second Street Presbyterian Church. She leaves her wonderful church friends who have reached out and supported her throughout the last few months.
When thoughts of Becky come to mind, love of family is forefront. Becky grew up in a loving, close-knit family. She was the youngest of four children raised by two devoted, hard-working parents, Ervin and Ollie Leach. Becky is preceded in death by her parents, sisters Sara Thompson and Scarlett Leach and brother J.W. Leach. Her Candor family has always been dear to her heart and the cornerstone of her life. She leaves behind a dear niece, Ann Parsons and her family. Additionally, Becky was preceded in death by her son, Raymond Scott Roach. Her motherly love for him is evidenced in her wish to be interred with him.
Becky’s greatest joys were her children, Angie Henderson (John) of New Mexico and Mike Roach (Lori) of Albemarle. She was a hands-on mother, nurturing and patient. Her correspondence with her Grands, Lachlan and Lilly Henderson who lived in New Mexico will be treasured forever. Without fail, she mailed a letter to them which they received every Thursday with a couple of dollars. This was “Mimi money” to take and get an ice cream cone. The letters provided encouragement, love, and an update on NC weather and escapades of her beloved Schnauzers.
Every Christmas, her canned vegetables and pecans arrived in a box with other treats without fail.
Becky was also devoted to her local Grands, McCauley and Payne Roach as well. She loved attending their school and sporting events. She was one of the first to arrive at every Grandparents Day event and enjoyed teaching them how to surf fish. Football and soccer shirts proclaiming their names and numbers were a must. She enjoyed baking them treats, making ornaments, creative gift wrapping, and soaking in moments together.
Heading to the beach with her surviving husband, Arthur Roach “Corky” meant the world to her. Her perfect weekend was fishing, looking for seashells, and eating seafood with her beloved sister-in-law, Donna Troutman (Benny).
Becky leaves behind a loving family, wonderful life-long friends, and neighbors who will miss her while cherishing each memory. She’s waiting for us all on the beach with a laugh and a fishing rod.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Victory Junction or Hospice of Stanly and the Uwharrie in memory of Becky.
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