Roger Witcher

Celebrating the Life of

Roger Lee Witcher

1946 – 2025

A Life Well Lived

Roger Lee Witcher was born in Penhook, Virginia, also known as “Witcherville,” in 1946, to the late Claude and Beatrice Witcher.

Growing up, Roger and his family were proud tobacco farmers, spending many long days working together on the farm.

In the early 1970s, Roger decided he needed a change of pace and planned a move to Detroit, Michigan, in search of new opportunities.

Along the way, he made a stop in Columbus, Ohio — where fate stepped in and he met the love of his life, Denise. The two united in marriage and shared 50 beautiful years together. From this union, two daughters, Leisa and Michele, were born. Roger was also the proud father of three children from a previous marriage: Roger (Jake) Jr., Berlinda, and Tilwanza.

A Man of Joy and Light

For those who knew him, Roger was a light in this world — the life of the party and the true definition of a father and friend.

To know him was to love him. If you ever met him, you’d never forget him. Never a harsh word did he utter; he was always a positive ray of sunshine.

From his funny sayings & dancing to his gigantic personality, kindness, contagious laugh, and big heart — Roger could light up a room just by his presence and energy.

There is so much that could be said about this incredible man God sent to us, but perhaps the best way to sum it up is this: the mold was broken. There will never be another kind, loving soul quite like him.

He was truly a blessing to us all. May his legacy inspire each of us to continue spreading love and kindness, just as he did every day of his life.

His Favorite Song

“When you hear about a home going, don’t you worry about me.”

Rest easy, Roger. We know you’re home.

Preceded in Death

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Beatrice Witcher; three brothers, Thurman(Man) Witcher, James (“Fella”) Witcher, and Dennis (“Frog”) Witcher; one sister, Geraldine (Jet) Witcher-Daniels; and his beloved son, Roger (Jake) Witcher Jr.

Cherished Memories Remain

Roger leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 50 years, Denise Witcher, of Columbus, Ohio; four daughters, Leisa (Keith) and Michele (Tyler) of Columbus, Ohio, Berlinda Witcher, and Tilwanza (James) Upshaw of Buffalo, New York and one brother, Alvin Witcher of Penhook, Virginia.

He also leaves behind seven grandchildren — Ty Parks-Witcher of Columbus, Ohio; Chantelle Moyer, OnTayo Gravely, Brandon Reid, and Kenisha Redd all of Martinsville, Virginia; James Upshaw Jr. and Britney (Taryll) Sigler of Buffalo, New York — along with nine great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews, and extend family & Friends.

While he cherished all his nieces, the bond he shared with Tonya Gilbert was especially unique.

And his bonus grandson Caleb Vanecko.

Forever in Our Hearts

“The mold was broken the day he was made.

His laughter, his love, and his light will forever remain.”