Ed Roach

Edward N. Ed Roach, 79, went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 9th, 2010. Ed was born on December 4, 1930 in Longview and was the great-grandson of F. L. Whaley, one of the founders of the city. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary, and stepfather Sam Weldman. Ed was a 1948 graduate of Longview High School, where he was the King of Longview High and starting end for the '47 football team which is considered one of their greatest ever. After attending Baylor University, Ed saw combat with the Oklahoma 'Thunderbird' unit of the 45th Infantry Division during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1953. Following his military service Ed joined Eastman Kodak, retiring in 1992. Ed married Jacklyn Morgan on November 15, 1957. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Jackie, son, Sammy and his fiancé, Kim Launius, sister-in-law Carala Morgan Carver, Aunt Amelie Moffett, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews There were numerous interests in Ed's life. He particularly loved bass fishing and was the owner Uncle Ed's Tackle for 12 years which allowed him to work with and design fishing lures. Ed had a passion for fitness and for many years, enjoyed time working out with the "lunch bunch". He and Jackie were blessed with their 'Couples Club', meeting once a month in one of the four couples homes for 42 years. Each spring, Ed looked forward to gathering with his old friends at the Maco Stewart Open. Ed especially treasured the time spent with his son watching and discussing Texas Longhorn Football. Ed was a lifetime member of First Baptist Church in Longview and truly enjoyed his Sunday School Department, the Bread of Life. Services are under the direction of Rader Funeral Home of Longview. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, January 12th 2010 from 11:00 am – 12:00pm. Services will be at 12 PM in the Chapel of Rader Funeral Home with Dr. Tim Watson of First Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be at Grace Hill Cemetery. The family request that memorials be made to First Baptist Church, 209 E. South St., 75601, or to Beacon Hospice at Margaret's House, 5016 Gilmer Rd., 75604. A memorial guestbook may be signed online at www.raderfh.com.

Ed Roach

December 4, 1930 - January 9, 2010