Edith Humphreys Roark

Edith Humphreys Roark, 83, of Johnson City, Tennessee, born January 26, 1943, a woman whose life was beautifully defined by one word—faithful—went home to be with the Lord after a courageous and grace-filled journey with cancer on Sunday, April 12, 2026.

For decades, she devoted her life to teaching children, with a special passion for reading and writing. She possessed a rare and remarkable gift: the ability not only to teach children how to read, but to teach them to love it. Generations of students credit her with shaping their academic success—and their confidence in life—because she intervened when reading did not come easily. Many families sought her out specifically for her extraordinary ability to unlock the written word for their children. She believed every child could learn, and she loved them wholeheartedly.

Her love for children extended far beyond the classroom. A faithful and devoted member of Buffalo Ridge Baptist Church in Gray, she was a gifted Sunday School teacher and a cornerstone of the church’s children’s ministries. Through her gentle spirit, steady teaching, and unwavering faith, she introduced generations of young hearts to Jesus. Her quiet consistency and joyful service left an eternal imprint on countless lives.

Faithfulness defined her in every role she carried. She was a faithful daughter to the late Sidney and Jennie Humphreys; a faithful sister; a faithful wife to her beloved husband of 54 years, Larry Roark; a faithful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother; and a faithful friend.

Beyond teaching, she recognized another of her God-given gifts: caregiving. Throughout her adult life, she tenderly cared for ill family members, often welcoming them into her home for years at a time. When their needs grew beyond what could be managed at home, she continued to faithfully tend to them in nursing homes, never wavering in devotion or love.

In 2019, following a cancer diagnosis, she began another chapter of faithfulness. For nearly seven years, she battled the disease with courage and determination, enduring seasons of both sickness and renewed strength. During that time, she continued to set and reach meaningful goals, living with purpose and gratitude even in hardship. Her resilience was a testimony to the steadfast faith that had anchored her life from beginning to end.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and faith in her children: Jon (Stephanie) Roark, Nancy Roark, and Beth (John) Sherrer. She was a cherished grandmother to Aaron (Cindy) McKee, Audrey McKee, Josie (Logan) Rivers, and Mattie Roark (fiancée, Harrison Ruud), and a proud great-grandmother to Callen McKee. She is also survived by her sister, Jean (David Vopal) Bawden; nephews Curtiss Bawden and Fred (Mira) Bawden and families; along with many dear and lifelong friends whose lives were deeply enriched by her presence.

The family extends special thanks to the compassionate medical staff at Johnson City Medical Center, particularly on the second and fourth floors. She often expressed heartfelt gratitude for the excellent care she received over the years.

Her life was a testament to steady faith, sacrificial love, and the quiet power of showing up—day after day—for the people God placed in her path. The pages of her own story were filled with grace, and the legacy she leaves will continue to be read in the lives of those she taught, nurtured, and loved.

Edith’s family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 pm on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Buffalo Ridge Baptist Church, with a funeral service immediately following, under the direction of Pastor John Herdman. A graveside service will commence at 2:00 pm, Saturday, April 18, at Washington County Memory Gardens. Those attending the graveside are asked to meet at the cemetery by 1:50 pm.

Active pallbearers include: Randy Black, Harrison Ruud, Dwayne Martin, Aaron McKee, Logan Rivers, and Steve Barry. Honorary pallbearers include: Callen McKee, Curtiss Bawden, Fred Bawden, Trevor Bawden, Grant Bawden, Jimmy Rivers, Calvin Lasley, and Jerry Lovegrove.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are directed to Buffalo Ridge Baptist Church Mission Fund or Children’s Ministry (197 Suncrest St, Gray, TN 37615).

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E. Oakland Ave., Johnson City, is honored to serve the Roark family. (423) 282-1521