Obituary of Julian Obenshain

Julian Obenshain, 81, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Tues., September 9, 2014 surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Rev. Marvin and Gladys Obenshain and his sister, Dorothy O. Stevens. He was a lifelong resident of Roanoke and lifetime member of Melrose Baptist Church where he was a dedicated Youth Sunday School teacher, deacon, and faithful choir member. He attended VPI and was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served in Okinawa at the end of the Korean Conflict. He was retired from Norfolk-Southern Railway after 42 years of service. Julian was an avid outdoorsmen who enjoyed gardening, hunting, and fishing, and he loved singing and listening to music. He took great joy in serving and helping others. Left to cherish his memory are his devoted and caring wife of 57 years, Joyce F. Obenshain, daughters and sons-in-law, Julie and Anthony Francis, Jenny and Rick Moorer, Janet and Mark Washington, one son and daughter-in-law, John and Shelly Obenshain. He was the proud PawPaw of Rebekah and Lydia Washington, Timothy and Daniel Francis and Jonathan and Jacob Obenshain. He is also survived by two sisters and brothers-in-law, Frances and Kyle Flora, Lois and Jack Trent; one brother-in-law, Samuel R. Stevens; two aunts and close friends, Don and Polly Dodson. Many cousins, nieces, nephews and other exended family members and friends also survive him. The family wishes to thank Letia Harris for her loving care and compassion given to our father during the past six months. We also appreciate the services of the Salem VA Home Based Primary Care Team and Good Samaritan Hospice. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Melrose Baptist Church property committee or the Alzheimer's Association. A celebration of his life will be held at Melrose Baptist Church, 11:00am Friday, September 12, 2014 with the Rev. Larry E. Sprouse officiating. Interment will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at Simpson Funeral Home on Thursday, September 11, from 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-8:00pm. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home and Crematory, 366-0707.