Roat, James Harold's Obituary
James Harold Roat, born on July 25, 1951, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2025, at the age of 73. James was an extraordinary man whose legacy of love, humor, and craftsmanship will never be forgotten.
A true jack of all trades, James was much more than a skilled refrigeration mechanic—he had a magical ability to fix what was thought to be beyond repair. His hands, which worked wonders in both his professional and personal life, were a testament to his incredible talent and tireless work ethic.
On June 7, 1971, James married the love of his life, Meg Denice Roat, and together they raised two wonderful children, Kyle Roat and Carrie Holt. James was the epitome of a loving and devoted father, always present with a smile, a joke, and a reassuring presence. His sense of humor was infectious, and his ability to light up any room with laughter was one of his most cherished qualities.
James’s love extended beyond his immediate family, as he embraced the role of grandfather with immense joy. He was an adoring grandfather to Madison, Conner, Kolby, Kortlyn, and Camden, always present for their special moments, ready to share his wisdom, jokes, and love.
In his free time, James enjoyed the simplicity and peace of fishing and taking care of his yard. He found fulfillment in the small, quiet moments, yet never hesitated to lend a hand or offer guidance when needed. His love of sports was also a defining part of his character, whether playing or cheering for his teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers or yelling out a “Boomer Sooner” when Oklahoma University played, James was always passionate about the games and the camaraderie they brought.
James is survived by his loving wife and best friend of over 54 years, Meg Denice Roat; his children, Kyle Roat and Carrie Holt; his grandchildren, Madison, Conner, Kolby, Kortlyn, and Camden; and his sisters, Linda Duncan and Sharron Dugger. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Ray Roat and Margie Dean Roat, and his brother, Mark Allen Roat.
James will be remembered not only for his unmatched skills but also for his warm heart, steadfast dedication to his family, and his infectious sense of humor. He touched the lives of everyone who knew him and will be deeply missed.
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