Obituary of James "LeRoy" Maxey

James "LeRoy" Maxey 73 of Roanoke passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 19, 2016 at home with his family by his side. He is now at peace and free of the devastating pancreatic cancer that took him from us quickly. LeRoy was born in Radford, VA on July 21, 1942 to Dewey I. and Lessie E. Ellison Maxey who preceded him in death. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his much-loved only sister Roberta (Bobbie) Maxey and sister-in-law Brenda M. Maxey. LeRoy was raised in Peterstown, WV and graduated from Peterstown High School with the class of 1960 and enlisted in the United States Air Force in July 1960. He proudly served his country for 8 years. While in the Air Force, he was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service. LeRoy worked at the Radford Army Ammunition Plant for one year and then came to Roanoke to work for Singer Furniture as plant accountant. After 12 years with Singer, he then went to work at I.T.T. in the accounting field. LeRoy retired from I.T.T. after 20 years of service. He enjoyed retirement but after finishing his "honey-do" list he went back to work for Carilion in the accounting department and then as a courier for CCL. LeRoy had many hobbies during his life. Some were photography, camping, woodworking, and amateur radio. He was an active member of the Roanoke Valley Amateur Radio Club where he held many positions over the years (AG4RW). He also enjoyed all music but especially southern gospel. LeRoy loved sitting in the swing on the screened porch listening to gospel music. His greatest passion in life was being kind and helpful to his family, friends, neighbors, and anyone who needed a helping hand. His passing has left a void that can never be filled. LeRoy was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle. Those left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife of 55 years, Sarah, his only child Steve, who was loved beyond words, daughter-in-law Nicole, adored granddaughters Danielle and Brooke, and precious great-grandsons Kaiden and Landon and his step-grandchildren Hannah and Zachary. LeRoy is also survived by brothers Alvin and Lowell and his wife Amy. LeRoy loved his nephews and nieces and their families very much. They are Chad, Denise, Angela, Shawn, Ashley, Derek, and Becky. A brother-in-law Howard and wife Kitty also survive him. He is also survived by the mother of his grandchildren, Donna Maxey, and many other relatives, dear friends and neighbors. The family could not have made this difficult journey without God's grace, the love and prayers of many wonderful friends and relatives, Good Samaritan Hospice (who are angels on earth) and especially Cary, Cynde, Cinda, and aide LaToya. We are grateful to Dr. Matthew Skelton and his nurse Angie of Blue Ridge Cancer Center. The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 23 from 10:30 a.m. until the 12:00 p.m. Celebration of Life service at Simpson Funeral Home Chapel. Full military honors will be conducted. Pastor Mark Washington will officiate. Inurnment will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to Good Samaritan Hospice, 2408 Electric Rd., Roanoke, VA 24018 in LeRoy's honor. LeRoy Maxey - AG4RW - Silent Key