Chester Steven Roaf

Published 3:56 pm Sunday, July 3, 2022

Chester Steven Roaf, 71, of Surry, VA, passed away on Wednesday, June 30, 2022.  

He was the son of the late Chester Edwin Roaf and Barbara Louise Dupuis Roaf. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Carolyn Pittman Roaf; daughter, Amanda McCoy Roaf and her husband Michael Hernandez; a sister, Delia Parker and her husband Chuck; and a brother, Warren Roaf and his wife Carol; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Steve grew up in Manchaug, MA. His childhood was filled with life lessons from his grandfather and mischievous endeavors to tend to local wildlife. Always a student, he obtained a Bachelor’s degree, a Master’s degree in Health Care Administration and was a Certified Lay Speaker. He served in the Air Force for 20 years, working in Titan missiles and hospital administration. After retiring from the military, he embraced life in Virginia with open arms, honing his passions for gardening, beekeeping and winemaking. He took great pride in his ability to use his land fully. 

A true renaissance man, Steve wrote and performed his own music, knew good whiskey, and trained loyal dogs. His home was full of guitars, collectibles from his travels around the world, and countless books (some of which he wrote). He relished a good intellectual sparring match and could debate for hours on politics, finance, theology, or any other topic presented to him. Steve was the truest patriot you could find and stayed invested in the wellbeing of our country even during times when hope was scarce. 

As his loved ones, we will miss his wit, creativity, and passion. His legacy can be found in all of us in small and big ways. We are more stable, aware, and educated because he loved us enough to share his gifts. In his honor, we will all continue to read the Constitution, love our dogs, and never stop seeking truth. 

A funeral service will be held on Friday, July 8, 2022 11 a.m. at Bacon’s Castle Baptist Church, Surry, VA followed by burial in the Old Brick Church Cemetery.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.