Roger James Herring, born on February 9, 1953, in Kenansville, NC, passed away peacefully at home on November 15, 2024, at the age of 71. His journey through life was one of inspiration, laughter, and profound impact.
Roger’s life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to education and service. He dedicated much of his career as a Mathematics and English Professor at the University of Northern Iowa and also tutored veterans who were furthering their education. This employment experience is where he realized that teaching is a very rewarding and gratifying challenge. His love for mathematics was rivaled only by his dedication to his country. He proudly and honorably served in the US Air Force from October 29, 1972 – October 15, 1976 as an Administrative Specialist. Roger was employed with the US Department of Defense Mapping Agency for 10-plus years of Federal Service.
A true intellectual, Roger found joy in the strategic challenges of chess and the camaraderie of dominoes. He was equally at home on the bowling lanes and basketball courts, where his competitive spirit and boisterous energy were always on full display. Those who knew him understood that Roger was not just a participant but often the vibrant center of any gathering, his loud personality leaving an indelible mark on every heart he touched.
Roger was raised Baptist and as a member of the Baptist community, he found solace and direction in his beliefs. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics from North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC, and Graduate courses in Education and Geodetic Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA; a foundation that propelled him into a life of teaching and learning.
As he has no children, he is preceded in death by his beloved parents James Wesley Herring and Dorothy Barnes (Cooper) and youngest sister, Prenella Cooper. Roger leaves behind Siblings, Sisters: Mary H. Dyer of Jacksonville NC; Kay Herring of San Antonio, TX; and Pearl Herring of Cleveland, OH; and, Brother: Herman Cooper, Jr., who will forever remember Roger as the best brother who led with courage and humor.
Roger’s legacy will be honored on Thursday, December 12, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, 110 Montford Landing Road, Jacksonville, NC 28540 with military rites rendered, a fitting tribute to a life lived with valor and enthusiasm. His memory will be cherished by family, friends, colleagues, and students whose lives he touched with his wisdom and warmth.
In the words of those who knew him best, Roger had to be the center of attention, a role he embraced with joy and exuberance. He taught us all that life’s greatest lessons are learned not just in books, but in the laughter and love we share with one another.
May he rest in peace, knowing his life was a beacon of light and inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to know him.
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Coastal Cremations of Jacksonville is serving the family.
3 Comments
Dear Uncle Roger, sleep well. Uncle you were an inspiration to me a true intellectual you had an opinion and an argument for any topic. You inspired me to return to school and obtain my bachelor’s degree, you were always available to tutor through the rigors of college math, lord knows I needed the help. Thank you for being the example of how education can change everything, I will miss your smile, confidence and swagger. Sleep well dear uncle you are remembered and loved.
I will miss your jokes and the laughter we shared, dear brother, and am so happy that we had a recent and final lunch outing at IHOP. Rest in power.
Dear Uncle Roger, what’s up Stud! You handsome man!! I will always love you. I remember when I was a young man and my mom was in an abusive relationship and how you stepped in. That night was the night you became my hero, you stood toe to toe with Darkness and overcame it . The world says Domestic violence is none of my business but you didn’t. You fought for your sister my mom Prenella Cooper and you fought for me. You will always be my hero and a man I respect. You showed me that you are a man in most places where men are afraid to be men and protect WOMEN. I will follow suit and not think twice about it just like you Uncle Roger. Hey I know you’re not perfect, then too, what person is. Hey! I love you for you and that’s all that counts. You will always be missed and thought of.
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