Mrs. Henrietta B. Roach

Henrietta Burdine Roach was born on November 16, 1935, in Linden, Virginia, to the late James Henry Clowe and Bessie Jackson Clowe. She was the fifth of six children. She peacefully entered her eternal rest with Jesus Christ on Friday, April 25, 2025, while residing at Viva Senior Living. A proud graduate of William C. Taylor High School in Warrenton, VA, Henrietta was actively involved in the Civic Club, Yearbook Committee, and the National Honor Society. On June 29, 1957, Henrietta entered holy matrimony with the love of her life, Rev. Clyde Wendell Roach of Steelton PA, at Mt. Paran Baptist Church in Linden, VA. Their union was blessed with two sons, Dwight W. Roach and Trent E. Roach, who they raised in Harrisburg, PA. Henrietta’s professional career began in 1960 with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation where she held several positions related to Data Entry. In 1983, she proudly became a Data Entry Supervisor. She retired after 30 years of dedicated service leaving behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and strong leadership. Supporting her husband’s pastoral ministry, which began in 1970, Henrietta accompanied him through numerous assignments including Monumental African Methodist Episcopal Church of Steelton, PA (1970); Ebenezer AME, Middletown, PA (1971); Bethel AME Church, Carlisle, PA (1978); Grace United Methodist and First United Methodist Church in Steelton, PA (1992). Henrietta was deeply cherished by him and the congregations they served. Clyde’s last appointment was at Riverside United Methodist Church in Harrisburg, PA starting in 1993 until his passing. Henrietta’s unwavering faith, hope, and love were the wind beneath Clyde's wings. She remained a loyal member of Riverside until its closure in 2019, serving as the Church’s Liturgist with pride. Henrietta deeply enjoyed and cherished singing. Her soprano voice was a serenade of joyful praise whether it was with the choir or her angelic solo renditions. Her warm melody touched many hearts. Henrietta was a founding member of the Capital Area Music Association (CAMA) under the esteemed musical leadership of Dr. Tony Leach. CAMA performed in local concerts, promoted musicals, conducted educational workshops and granted scholarships – activities that were very dear to her heart. Additionally, Henrietta was also a proud member of the Red Hatters. She delighted in donning her red hat while fellowshipping with the Red Hatters. Henrietta found great joy in cooking and baking, never hesitating to fulfill a culinary request. Every day, you could find her outside gardening, solving crossword puzzles, crocheting, and bird watching especially during the spring as she eagerly anticipated spotting a robin. Her grandkids were her pride as she cared for them after retirement. She was a prolific bowler, participating in multiple bowling leagues and consistently striving for her personal best. Henrietta was a very fashionable dresser who displayed a butterfly pin on her rear right shoulder. Henrietta was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Henry and Bessie Clowe; her siblings: James “McKinley,” Calvin “Maxwell,” Algernon “Sylvester,” and Jack Clowe; and her devoted husband, Rev. Clyde W. Roach. Henrietta is survived by her loving sons, Dwight W. Roach and Trent E. (Ernestine “Tina”) Roach of Harrisburg PA; her cherished sister, Audrey M. Clowe; her treasured grandchildren, Marcel T. Roach, Kalia L. Roach, Kurtis W. (Jenelle) Roach, Ariel P. Roach and Joseph C. Scott-Roach; her adored great-grandchildren, Ayden V. Roach, Bryson C. Roach and Chanel I. Roach; her brother-in-law, Kenneth (Lois) Roach; her sister-in-law, Joyce Bradshaw; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Lovingly Submitted, XOXO The Family In lieu of flowers, you can support her love of gardening by donating a planted tree on Mrs. Roach's behalf through this website. FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE ENCOURAGED TO CLICK ON THE SHARE A MEMORY TAB TO POST VIDEOS, SHARE MEMORIES, CONDOLENCES, REFLECTIONS OR SIMPLY LEAVE YOUR NAME.

Tributes

Mrs. Henrietta B. Roach

November 16, 1935 - April 25, 2025