Jon Colin Roma

Jon Colin Roma, 82, passed away on January 16, 2025, after living a life defined by selflessness, service, and devotion to his family and community. He is survived by his four daughters, Diane Holloway (Robert), Katie Dirks (Brandon), Melissa Houck (Darren), and Amanda Bybee (Todd), along with his five grandchildren: Robert Taylor Holloway, Kenzie Dirks, Baxter Dirks, Miles Houck, and Libby Houck.

Jon’s wife of 57 years, Meryle Forrest Roma, predeceased him, but his love for her remained steadfast throughout his life. Together, they built a home full of a deep commitment to the church and one another.

Born in Westbrook, ME on July 31,1942, Jon was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, where he served for 20 years with honor and dedication. After retiring from the Air Force, Jon made his home in Williamsburg, VA and continued to serve his community, working for the City of Williamsburg for another 20+ years, all while going back to school and working additional part-time jobs to ensure his family’s security. His work ethic, generosity, and commitment to others were unparalleled.

He was a devoted father and a constant presence in the lives of his daughters and grandchildren, attending games, chaperoning fundraisers and mission trips, and offering wisdom, guidance, and unwavering love. Above all, Jon's life was shaped by his faith and his service to others. He was a longtime member of the United Methodist Church, in Williamsburg, Charlotte, Louisville, and Kure Beach where he was an active participant in church life and mission work. He devoted countless hours to helping those in need, both within his church and in the broader community.

Jon was also an avid sports enthusiast, playing basketball, baseball, and bowling when younger, and a passionate golfer for many years. In his final years, Jon lived out a dream of being near the water, finally living at the beach. Whether on the beach, the golf course, or around the game table, Jon was known for being the life of the party — always ready with a smile, a snack, and a witty comment. Throughout his life, he gave freely of himself as a caregiver and provider, finishing his time on earth with peace and joy. In death, he will live with greater peace and the ultimate joy of being reunited with Meryle and their savior. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A celebration of Jon’s life will be held at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Kure Beach on Friday, February 7, at 3 p.m. A military burial at Arlington National Cemetery will take place at a later date.

Since the family is not local, they ask that rather than sending flowers, memorial gifts be made to St. Paul’s at 300 Harper Ave., Carolina Beach, NC 28428 (https://stpaulscb.org), or to the Wounded Warrior Project online at https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/ indicating memorial acknowledgements be sent to Katie Dirks, 1923 Ferncliff Rd., Charlotte, NC 28211.

Jon Roma’s passing leaves a void in the lives of his family, friends, and community, but his legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.