Obituary of Roy Lee Tennyson Jr.

Roy Lee Tennyson Jr. was born on February 13, 1938 in Middlesboro, Kentucky. He was one of five children from the union of the late Roy Lee and Juanita (Justice) Tennyson Sr. Roy attended Dundee High School, where he lettered as a pitcher, and graduated with the Class of 1956.

Roy married the love of his life, Mary Spaulding, on February 23, 1957 at the Congregational Church in Dundee. From this union came the birth of three children.   Roy worked in many capacities to provide for his family; fifteen years as a Manufacturing Supervisor for The Meilink Manufacturing Company in Toledo, ten years as a Supervisor for Ladapa Tool & Die Incorporated, and an additional fifteen years as an Appraiser for American Appraisal in Monroe.

Roy was an avid outdoorsman enjoying the likes of hunting, fishing, golf, mowing the lawn, or watching the tranquility of nature through his window.   He was also quite fond of his Detroit Tigers and Michigan Wolverines. 

A well-respected man, Roy was loving, kind, strong, and generous; although he could also be known for his quick wit.   More than anything, Roy loved his Lord and cherished his family, especially the grandchildren.  He loved to host events at his home.   In his quiet time, Roy could be found reading his favorite author Louis L’Amour western novels.   He enjoyed his four-legged companions and the family time-share at Hilton Head, South Carolina.  

Roy, age 80, went home to his Lord on Friday, January 18, 2019 surrounded by his loving family.   Those who know Roy can rest assured he is with now his Lord and Savior.  In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by brother:  James, and son-in-law:  Michael Sodergren.

To cherish his memory, Roy leaves his beloved wife of sixty-two years, Mary; three children: Kevin (Jeannie) Tennyson of Britton, Kimberly Sodergren of Dundee, and Linda (Tom) Hawley of Monroe; three siblings: Joan (Burton) Spaulding, Donald (Rose) Tennyson, Wanda (Willard) Butler; sister-in-law: Linda Tennyson; eight grandchildren: Daniel, Jeremy (Joyanna), Rachel, Olivia (Kyle), Tyler, Kayla, Kody (Tessa Bell), and Scott (Jenna); six great grandchildren with one on the way: Emma, Reese, Penelope, Millicent, Thomas Jay, Caroline; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may gather from 2:00pm-8:00pm on Monday, January 21, 2019 at Merkle Funeral Service, Dundee; 297 Tecumseh Street (734) 529-3156.   A Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am on Tuesday, January 22 also at Merkle’s with Pastor Roy Southerland officiating. Procession to Oak Grove Cemetery will follow.

Memorials are suggested to the charity of the donor’s choice.   Online guests may visit www.merklefs.com.