"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Revelation 21:4

On Wednesday, February 2, 2022, Willie James Roman, Sr. a devoted husband, father, son and grandfather, transitioned from labor to reward at his residence.


Billy, as he was affectionately called, was born on August 9,1942 to Willie Albert (aka "Duke") and Maggie Keller Roman in Lexington, NC. A 1960 graduate of Dunbar High School, he served in the United States Navy from 1960-1963. A hard-working and dedicated electrician, Billy retired from Phillip Morris, Inc. in 2001. In his spare time, he enjoyed watching the History Channel, drinking Pepsi's and spending time with his buddies, Hubert Roman, Alex Hamilton and Robert "Mitch" Mitchell.


On March 2, 1963, Billy married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Bessie Welborne. This 58-year union produced three wonderful children: Cassandra Roman of Winston Salem, NC, Willie James Roman, Jr., ( Pamela) of Lexington, NC and a loving daughter who preceded him in death, Pamela Bowman (Scott) of Charlotte, NC. In addition, Billy was proud of his son Michael Smith, (Stephanie) of Great Mills, MD.

Left to cherish his memory in addition to his immediate family is his brother, Bobby Roman ( Patricia) of Las Cruces, New Mexico. Billy held a special place in the hearts of his eight grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A private celebration of life will be held Sunday, February 6 at Craven-Powell Chapel at Roberts Funeral Service. Interment will follow at Lexington City Cemetery. A public visitation will be held Saturday from 1:00-5:00 p.m.


Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:51-58(KJV)