Roy Glenn Washington

Roy Glenn Washington, 76, of McDonough, Georgia, triumphantly transcended this life on April 2, 2025, peacefully passing through death to eternal life, surrounded by his loving family and close friends.

Born on November 4, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Roosevelt and LouElla Washington, Roy was one of five siblings. He is survived by his brother Thomas (Gloria) Washington of Las Vegas, NV, and sisters Geraldine (Curtis) Gibson and Sandra (Carl) Wesley of Houston, TX. Roy was preceded in death by brothers Vernard, William and Clarence Washington; sisters Beulah Mae Whitney, Clarence, and Bertha Cade; and his eldest daughter Reniece Kabando.

Roy was a proud graduate of Detroit public schools, where he also earned his college degree in mathematics and accounting. He began his professional life with a deep commitment to service, enlisting in the United States Army and serving with honor during the Vietnam War. Though he rarely spoke of it, Roy received the Bronze Star Medal for his service—a testament to his quiet bravery and dedication. His family always carried deep gratitude that he returned home safely, even as they understood that his time overseas left difficult memories.

Roy was a loving and devoted father to daughters LTC Nicole Rau of Fort Johnson, LA, and Danielle Washington of McDonough, grandfather to Kenya Kabando, Jar’ Reon and Aileyah Washington, and great grandfather to McKenna, all of McDonough.

On March 30, 1996, Roy was united in Holy Matrimony to Loretta Thompson, with whom he shared 29 beautiful years. Their bond was deep and unshakable. On their final anniversary, Loretta sat beside his hospital bed, held his hand, and whispered vows of love once more: “In sickness and in health.” Though Roy could not speak, his eyes said everything.

Roy embraced Loretta’s sons, LeTari (Cheramie) Thompson of Las Vegas, NV, and Jaaron Thompson of Atlanta, GA, as his own; and together they shared the joy of two more grandchildren, Aryana Thompson of Greensboro, NC, and Adonis Thompson of Las Vegas.

Roy’s career as an accountant spanned many years, but his truest callings were as a teacher, mentor, and servant. Whether he was sharing his knowledge of history, politics, automobiles, landscaping, or scripture, Roy delighted in educating and empowering others, especially the youth, seizing every opportunity to speak life and encouragement to them. Each year, he eagerly anticipated Black History Month, where he could share his expansive knowledge of African-American history.

A proud, yet humble man, Roy accepted CHRIST at an early age and remained committed to the Christian faith. He and Loretta were always active parts of the church wherever they lived. This included Union Baptist Church of Wilmington, NC, Greater Second Mount Olive of Albany, GA, St. Paul of Bainbridge, GA, Church 180 of McDonough, GA, and most recently, Mount Olive Baptist Church of Stockbridge, GA. He wore several different hats over the years, serving faithfully as a deacon, teacher, and bookkeeper. He even sang with the Male Chorus, touching countless lives with his insight and unwavering faith.

A man of quiet strength, Roy loved riding bicycles, discussing current events and politics, and spending time in the peace and tranquility of his beautifully maintained yard. He was known for his quick wit and wry sense of humor, always ready with a joke or story that would lift the mood and bring laughter to the room.

Roy Washington was a kind, compassionate, and generous man whose life was marked by integrity, discipline, and a deep love for GOD and family. He offered himself in service—to his country, to his church, and to anyone in need. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, wisdom, and love that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In addition to his progeny and siblings previously mentioned, left to cherish fond memories of Roy are goddaughters Geonna Tipton and Azimah King; Sisters-in-Love Katie Washington of Ohio, Vene Thompson of Los Angeles, CA, and Lawana (Mark) Wortham of Niles, MI; Brothers-in-Love Joe (Kim) and Robert Thompson of McDonough, GA; and several close friends with whom Roy shared sacred bonds, including George and Wanda Tipton of Alexandria, LA, Curtis and Mildred Powell of Cairo, GA, Pastor John and Deborah Wooden, LaShawn Close, and Kavisha Mathis. In addition, a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends remain to mourn this loss.

Forever etched in our memories, Roy Glenn Washington was truly one of the good ones—a beloved husband, devoted father, doting grandfather, steadfast brother, and faithful friend who will not be forgotten.

We thank GOD for the gift of his life.