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1967 The Roar
R. L. Turner High School
Carrollton, Dallas Co., TX
Senior Class |
OBITUARY
 Wayne William
Roeder, known to many
simply as "Coach," saw his Savior face to face early on Friday morning,
February 6, 2026. He finished his race with the same strength and
determination that defined his entire life. Born on July 21, 1949, in
San Francisco, California, to Willa and Harry Roeder, Wayne grew into a
man of profound character whose influence would eventually span
generations.
Wayne was a
devoted husband to his
wife, Gwen, and their marriage stood as a beautiful testament to their
deep love, mutual commitment, and shared faith in God. They were a true
team, and on February 12, 2026, they would have celebrated 54 years of
marriage. Wayne was his wife's greatest encourager, loving her with a
depth and sincerity that served as an example to all who knew them. His
devotion extended wholeheartedly to his daughters, Maggie and Bronwyn,
and his grandchildren, Jonas, Harper, and Stonewall. To them, he was
simply the best Dad and Grandy ever, and they remained the greatest
joys of his life.
The trajectory
of Wayne's life changed
forever in July 1970, when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior at a
James Robison Crusade in Garland, Texas. This spiritual foundation led
him to his calling as a coach and teacher, a role he believed was a
direct assignment from God. Throughout his career at Bishop Dunne High
School, Lake Dallas High School, and First Baptist Academy, Wayne
touched the lives of countless young men and women. While he achieved
great professional success, including three state championships and
numerous coaching accolades, his greatest satisfaction came from the
relationships he built. He lived by the conviction that the game itself
was secondary to the people involved and the bonds formed on and off
the field.
Beyond the
sidelines, Wayne's ministry
took many forms. At Mt. Lebanon Baptist Encampment, he was a fixture at
the rifle range, where he shared stories and the message of Jesus with
campers during their daily rest time. For many years, he also taught
fifth-grade boys in Sunday School, forming connections so strong that
he remained a mentor to many of them as they grew into responsible
adults. Wayne possessed the rare gift of humility; he never viewed
himself as important, yet he had an extraordinary way of making
everyone else feel important and loved. He made a lasting difference
wherever he served, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and a
life well-lived.
A celebration
of Wayne's life and
legacy will be held on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM at
Hillcrest Baptist Church in Cedar Hill, Texas. The family will receive
friends and loved ones during a visitation period at the church
beginning at 10:00 AM, immediately prior to the service. Friends,
family, and the many athletes he coached are invited to gather and
honor a man who truly made a difference in every life he touched.
In lieu of
flowers, memorials may be made in Wayne's memory to Hillcrest Baptist
Church/Student and Children Camp Scholarships |
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