Apologies for not being able to speak yesterday. I have so many memories of Roy.
Roy was one of the first people I met when I moved to Florida in 2009. Roy took it upon himself to help this new Floridian find her way to the best spots in the county as only a native could.
My first impressions of Roy were a country boy who was both tough and sensitive. Once you were one of Roy's people, you were always one of Roy's people.
Roy was the type of man that was always there to help his people, no matter what. If it was in Roy's ability to help solve some problem, he was right there. Whether it was his brute strength that was required, or his mechanical skill, he was right there. If Roy couldn't fix it, it couldn't be fixed.
Roy held the distinction of being one of my oldest friends. My memories of my Florida life are completely interwoven with Roy. From Roy in the mosh pit at EarthDay Birthday 18 (breaking a couple of ribs), to driving through one of the worst storms to get to a concert, he was a great protector in difficultsituations for me.
One of his proudest moments was the world stereo competition he was in a few years ago. I drove over to watch the competition and I learned so much that day. One of the things I always knew was that when Roy put his mind to something, he strove to be the best. I was proud of my friend to see him become the best that day.
Our relationship was very symbiotic. As I learned more about Roy and his dreams, I was able to help his explore different employment options and help him get help from some other organizations. I would be his buffer in situations he found extremely difficult. The technical jargon spoke in some situations was difficult for him to understand. I would translate and "speak Roy" to him so he could better understand intentions and expected outcomes.
Roy had his personal demons. What I admired in him was that no matter how many times he got knocked down, he kept getting back up and trying to be the best version of himself. I think his children were a lot of the reason he kept trying, and of course Jane. His character was one of his most admirable traits.
There aren't enough words to express the gaping wound his departure leaves in my life. It's such a deep wound it takes my breath away sometimes.
I miss you my friend. I always will.