December 25, 58, Seven Springs
Joseph Leroy “Roy” Outlaw, Jr., 58, of Seven Springs, received his heavenly reward and awoke to the face of Jesus on Christmas morning. Roy was born November 18, 1961 in Lenoir County to Joann Sutton Outlaw and the late Joseph Leroy Outlaw, Sr.
With a love and passion for farming and agriculture, Roy worked 30 years as an Animal Health Technician with the N.C. Department of Agriculture. Following retirement, Roy began working as a field representative for East Carolina Stockyard.
Roy is a member and past president of both the N.C. Angus Association and the Wayne County Cattlemen’s Association. He currently serves on the Board Of Directors for the Wayne County Livestock Development Association.
From his beloved herd of Angus cows to growing hay, Roy’s world revolved around farming. When his new granddaughter, Gracelyn, came along things changed. She had her Pappy wrapped around her tiny fingers. Roy loved his family and worked hard to care and provide for his wife and two daughters. As an only child, he was faithful in taking care of his mama, whom he dearly loved.
Only one came before Roy’s family, and that was his Savior. Roy was a lifelong member of Seven Springs Baptist Church. He served as a deacon many times and his church family held a special place in his heart. Roy was always honest, caring, reliable, and hardworking.
Though Roy was a homebody, he enjoyed meeting new people. He was a friend to all and liked nothing more than to sit down and have a good conversation, especially when it involved talking about his cows and his alma mater, North Carolina State University. He had a keen sense of humor and could talk to anybody. Roy held a deep concern for his fellow man and was willing to help others any way he could.
A service to celebrate Roy’s life will be held Saturday, December 28, 2019 at 2 p.m. at Seven Springs Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery, La Grange.
In addition to his mother, Roy is survived by his loving wife, Donna; daughters, Chelsea Outlaw Mercer and Courtney Noelle Outlaw; and his precious granddaughter, Gracelyn Marie Mercer.
A time of visitation for family and friends will be held Friday from 6-8 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Memorials in Roy’s memory may be to the Seven Springs Baptist Church-Baptist Men, PO Box 55, Seven Springs, NC 28578. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home.