Tom Wayne Roofe

Tom Wayne Roofe was born February 18, 1957, in Rockford, Illinois. He was born to Marshall and Roberta (Gott) Roofe. He grew up in Salem, Missouri, and attended Salem High School. After high school, he served faithfully in the United States Navy until his honorable discharge. Tom was united in marriage to the love of his life, Pamela Merritt, January 17, 1976, in Salem, Missouri. They shared the past forty-eight years creating lasting memories together. Tom and Pam were blessed with two children: Michael and Lisa, and later adopted their grandson: Derek as their own. Tom started his lifelong career as a firefighter in the early 1970’s before Dent County Fire Protection District was a district. He served with DCFPD for thirty-eight years and was promoted to chief. He was elected to the DCFPD Board and was a member until he retired in 2015. Tom provided a major role in developing the fire district as it is today. Tom was an avid outdoorsman. He loved spending time near the water, whether it was scuba diving at Norfork Lake or hauling canoes with Jadwin Canoe Rental to the Current River. Tom was a mean grill master and truly enjoyed running the grill. He also had a competitive spirit and liked a clean game of softball. Tom was a remarkable man with a heart of gold and an unwavering devotion to his faith. He displayed a true servant’s heart. He was brave, caring, and loving and always put others before himself. The love he had for his family was evident to those around him. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were his world, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Tom departed this life September 19, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Salem, Missouri, at the age of sixty-seven years. Those left behind to treasure his memory include his loving wife: Pam Roofe of Salem, MO; son: Michael Roofe and wife Shelly of Indiana; grandson/son: Derek Roofe and wife Wendy of Florida; mother: Roberta Miller of Salem, MO; sisters: Lonnie Norris and husband Jack of Salem, MO, Vontella Kissir and husband Rick of Salem, MO, Marla Thornburg and husband Daniel of Iowa, and Carrie Sutterfield and husband Travis of Kansas; stepsister: Cora Butler of Columbia, MO; grandchildren: Chandler Gray and wife Lexy, Parker Roberts and wife Kyrstin, Noah Roberts, Lindsay Roofe, and Makalynn Roofe; great-grandson: Tyler and Beau; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, Dent County Fire Protection District Family, and dear friends. Preceding him in death were his daughter: Lisa Roofe; father: Marshall Roofe; stepfather: James Miller; brother: Steve Stephens; stepbrothers: Michael and Daniel Miller; and father and mother-in-law: Dean and Lavana Merritt. Tom leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and selflessness that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community. His memory will forever be a source of inspiration, reminding us to live a life filled with love, devotion, and kindness. Funeral Services for Tom Wayne Roofe were held Wednesday, September 26, 2024, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Daniel Thornburg, Bill Anderson, and Andrew Careaga officiating. Song selections played were “Because He Lives” and “Before”. The DCFPD presented the flag and provided the Last Call. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Memorial Contributions may be in memory of Tom Roofe to The Dent County Fireman’s Fund and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Condolences may be left online at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Tom Wayne Roofe

February 18, 1957 - September 19, 2024