"I enjoyed playing tennis with Mary. She was always smiling and doing her best. She was agile on the court and didn't look her age at all. I told her many times that I hope I can play as long as she did... Thanks Mary!!"
In loving memory of
Mary Elaine Roach
March 8, 1923 - July 1, 2011
Mary Elaine Roach, who raised two children and lived in Bellevue for 60 years, died peacefully on July 1 after a long struggle with Parkinson's disease. She was 88. May was was born was born in Seattle to Lilian and Archie Smith on March 8, 1923. She worked for Horluck Ice Cream during World War II and married George C. Roach, Sr. in 1942 and remained his wife until his death 59 years later. After marriage, she lived with George in Magnolia and then moved to Bellevue in 1953. Mary was admired by all who knew her as a kind, thoughtful, and sweet person. Mary was one of the first members of Robinswood Tennis Center. Toward the end of her tennis career, she was known as the "Queen of Robinswood." Mary is survived by her son and daughter, George Roach and Margaret Reed and her grandson, Blake.
Tributes
"I remember Mary when I played at Robins-wood Tennis Club. We played together many times. I always admired her for her wisdom and playing skills on the tennis court. She will be remembered as a kind and loving person. I wish to extend my deep sympathy to her family and friends."
"Tennis was one of Mary's passions. She also loved flowers and gardening and was a member of a gardend club for many years. She was kind and loving to all and she is missed greatly. I can picture her playing tennis on a court surrounded by beautiful flowers and the air filled with the fragrance of so many happy memories from the past. Thank you Mary for all those happy times. Lovingly, Toby"
"Mary was such a delight to play with. Such a positive attitude and a truly generous person."
"I was privileged to be able to play tennis with Mary. She was always so good at the net, rarely missed a shot. We used to say that Mary "played smart, not hard." She earned her title of the "Queen of Robinswood Tennis.""