Roger Ellsworth Sheats, Jr., 77, passed away on June 7, 2025, in Red Springs, NC. Born on January 7, 1948, Roger dedicated his life to public service, family, and community engagement.
Roger graduated from Red Springs High School before earning his degree from Davidson College. His career was marked by significant contributions to regional and state development, including roles at the Mid-Carolina Council of Governments, NC Rural Center, and as the Deputy Secretary of Environment and Planning at the NC Department of Transportation. He later served as the Director of Cape Fear River Assembly, advocating for environmental and community issues.
A lifelong member of Trinity United Methodist Church in his hometown, Roger was deeply involved in his faith community. His commitment to service was also evident in his personal hobbies. An avid woodworker, surf fisherman, and gardener, Roger also devoted much of his time to leading Boy Scouts and coaching little league baseball, instilling values of leadership and community service.
Roger was a loving husband to Frances McNeill Sheats and a guiding force in the lives of his children, Lewis (Cindy), Chris (Katie), and Kelly (Scott). His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Kyle, Chandler, MacKenzie, Samuel, Nellie Grace, Alex, and Emmett. He is also survived by his brother Richard (Susan), and sisters-in-law Patricia (David) and Eloise. He also leaves to cherish his memory his nieces and nephews, Virginia Pope, Richard Sheats Jr, Amanda Frazier, Scott Sheats, Daniel Sheats, Collin Pope, Logan Roberson, Molly Sheats, and Finley Sheats. Preceding him in death were his parents, Roger and Johnnie Sheats, and his brother, John C. Sheats.
Roger’s commitment to helping others extended beyond his lifetime, as he chose to donate his body to the Elon University Anatomical Gift Program, continuing to support education and research.
A service to celebrate Roger’s life will be held on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at 2pm at Trinity United Methodist Church in Red Springs, NC. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Jimmy V Foundation 14600 Weston Parkway, Cary, NC 27513 or Trinity United Methodist Church 204 3rd Ave, Red Springs, NC 28377 reflecting his lifelong support of cancer research and his faith community.