Thomas (Tom) P. Roach Jr

Thomas P. (Tom) Roach, Jr., 67, Kingsport, was carried by angels to his Eternal Home in heaven on Thursday, April 24, 2014.

Born in Kingsport, TN, on February 12, 1947, Tom was a kind and gentle soul who loved helping others. After graduating from Lynn View High School in 1965, he began 34 years of employment at Eastman. He served our country in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970.

Tom was known as "The Friendly Auctioneer," first at Miller Auction Company, Newport, TN, and more recently at Olde Tyme Auction, Kingsport, TN. Being "Coach Roach" to his grandsons' ball teams was one of his greatest joys because he so loved being a "Papaw."

He accepted Jesus as his personal Savior 16 months ago, was baptized, and faithfully served his Lord in several ministries as a member of Colonial Heights Baptist Church, Kingsport, TN.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. and Mrs. Richard Dickson.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas P. Roach, Sr., and Frankie Presley Roach Myers; beloved son, Andy Shanks; uncle and friend, Bob Roach; and grand-dog, Sir Henry VIII.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sandy Blakely Shanks Roach; son and wife, Eric and Bobbie Shanks, Kingsport; grandsons, Cody Shanks, Kingsport, and Levi Shanks, United States Air Force; brother, Michael Eddie Roach, Kingsport; grand-dog, Willow; many other family members; and a host of friends.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 1, 2014, at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. The service will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Dr. Greg Burton and Pastor David Salley officiating.

A military graveside service will follow the funeral service at Oak Hill Memorial Park, Kingsport. Military rites will be conducted by The American Legion, 3/265. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Benevolent Fund at Colonial Heights Baptist Church, 108 Colonial Heights Rd., Kingsport, TN 37663, to continue Tom's commitment to help others.