William Melvin Roark

William Melvin Roark, 85, of Abingdon, Virginia, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Abingdon on February 26, 1939, to the late Earl and Sallie Mae Henry Roark.
 
William, affectionately known as “Bill” to friends and loved ones, was a devoted husband, parent, and grandfather. He married the love of his life, Diane Williams, on February 12, 1965. Together, they raised two children: Ernie and Douglas.
 
Bill served in the United States Army for four years, stationed in Germany, and in the National Guard for five years. He worked for 55 years as a master electrician, coal mine foreman, and building inspector.
 
In his spare time, he was an early computer and technology enthusiast, model train enthusiast, and companion to all friends and animals who wanted him by their sides. Bill was admired by all who met him for his optimistic approach to problems, his smile, and his ability to find humor in any situation.
 
Bill is survived by his wife of 59 years, Diane; his children, Ernie (Lois) Roark and Douglas (Sabrina Andrus) Roark; his two grandchildren, William Roark and John Burton Roark; and niece, Glenda Richardson. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Joann Torbett and Jean Clark, his brothers Earl Roark and Marvin Roark. Bill's family extends a special thanks to his niece, Glenda Richardson, for her innumerable contributions to Bill's life.
 
Visitation with the family will be held 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday, May 18, 2024, in the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service. Funeral services will follow at 5:00 p.m. with Dr. Bill Bryan officiating.  A private committal service will be held in the Colonial Chapel Mausoleum of Forest Hills Memory Gardens.  

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Washington County Animal Shelter in Bill’s memory.   

The family of William Melvin Roark is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service & Crematory, 427 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210, (276) 623-2700.