Helping you create a memorable service that honors and celebrates your loved one.

Ryan M. Roach, Licensee In Charge

Ryan is a life-long resident of Braxton County. He graduated from Braxton County High School. Following high school he attended West Virginia University in preparation for his studies at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. He has been a licensed funeral director and embalmer for over 25 years. Ryan has followed in his father’s footsteps by being passionate about caring for families in their difficult times of need.

Heather Roach, Secretary and Funeral Assistant

Heather also is a life-long resident of Braxton County. She grew up on “Sugar Creek” in Gassaway and graduated from Braxton County High School. She attended Fairmont State University and received a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. She currently keeps her nursing license up to date although her full time job is at the funeral home. She feels all her time spent caring for patient’s and families over her 25 years of nursing experience has prepared her to help families with the death of their loved one. Heather started her position of helping full time in 2013.

Tate M. Roach, Funeral Assistant, Business & Technology Associate

Tate first started with the Funeral Home and overall deathcare industry part-time at 16. Initially, his responsibilities included removals & transports and visitations & funerals. By the time he finished college, Tate gradually added responsibilities and capabilities. These include case management & operations software, multimedia digital tools, financial planning & analysis, bookkeeping, and sitting in on service arrangements.

Tate grew up in rural Appalachia, living in Gassaway. Tate ran and competed in state championships in cross country and track & field. He graduated in the top 10 of his high school class at Braxton County High School. After high school, Tate completed his B.S.B.A. in Entrepreneurship & Innovation at West Virginia University in three years. As a part of his bachelor’s degree, Tate’s capstone project was with City of Romney government officials and economic development board to advise their economic, financial, marketing, and strategy plans for the redevelopment and reuse of their 14,000 square foot dairy barn. Tate was then invited and accepted to become a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma and Phi Kappa Phi honor societies, respectively.

Tate next went on to obtain his M.B.A. at West Virginia University, as well. As a part of his master’s degree, Tate’s capstone project was to advise a non-disclosed podcast on growth strategies.

In his spare time, Tate enjoys reading behavioral economics, historical, and realistic fiction novels, spending time running and training with his friends, and taking care of his Frenchton dogs, Loui and Lola.

Melissa Mick, Funeral Home Assistant

Melissa grew up in Gilmer County; however, she has lived in Braxton County for over 20 years.  She is a former pharmacy technician.  Melissa has a passion for helping people in times of need.  She started at the funeral home in January 2023.