Roy R. Rosa, age 99...and one-half, peacefully passed away in Johnson City, Texas, on Thursday evening, September 25, 2008. Roy was born in Sandy, Texas, on February 4, 1909, on the J.H. Rosa Ranch, established by his grandfather, J.H. Rosa, Sr. in the 1860’s.

Roy was a true cowboy and rancher all his life and an excellent steward of the land and livestock long before environmental studies and regulations. He was guided by generations of family experience, common sense, a strong work ethic, and believed in doing what was right, no matter how difficult that might be. He was a man who was well loved and respected by all who knew him. His word and his handshake were more than a contact; they were a bond.

Roy married Beatrice E. Dixon on November 18, 1936, and they shared life as one; each by the other’s side in work and play for 69 years. They were known for going to local dances well into their eighties. The only reason they stopped dancing is because the River Palace closed.

Roy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Beatrice; his father, J.H. Rosa, Jr. and his mother, Sally Rosa; and his three brothers, Oscar, Calvin, and Cecil Rosa. He is survived by his family, Sally Armstrong, and Calvin and Sonja Hartmann, of Johnson City. He is also survived by Bea’s niece, Genevia Bushnell and her husband, D.R., and their family; as well as a lifetime of friends.

There will be visitation on Sunday evening, September 28th, from 5:00 until 7:00. Funeral services will be Monday morning, September 29th, at 10:00 at Crofts Funeral Home in Johnson City followed by internment at the family cemetery on the Rosa Ranch. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Johnson City Library, Stonewall Vounteer Fire Department, or SDMS Scholarship Fund or the charity of choice.