Rickey Clifton Roller

Rickey Clifton Roller, 78, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, passed away on the morning of April 29, 2025, after a courageous 10-year battle with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). Born on May 28, 1946, in Bennettsville, South Carolina, Rickey lived a life grounded in faith, love, service, and quiet strength.

Rick made his home in Fayetteville, NC for the past 24 years; however much of this time was also spent at Oak Island, NC where he and his wife shared sunsets, sea breezes and created beautiful memories.

Rickey proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War as an Accessories Mechanic, working on C-130 aircraft. A true patriot, he carried his love of country and his deep faith in the Lord throughout his life. Rickey earned a college degree and began his career in accounting before following his entrepreneurial spirit to own and operate S&S Sales, a successful wholesale building supply business.

Rick was a man who not only believed in the power of God’s word but actively supported his wife in their music ministry, RollerMinistries, where she sang and shared the word through song.

He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 24 years, Kristen Ellen Roller, and two daughters he deeply loved: Jennifer Sullivan (Eric) and Jodi Outlaw (Jeremy Brooks), each of whom held a special and lasting place in his heart. He was a proud “Grampy” to eight grandchildren: Chaz, Caius, and Athalie (children of Jennifer), and Kira, Eva, Talon, JayLeigha, and Jeremy Jr. (children of Jodi).

Rick’s extended family was very important to him. He is remembered lovingly by his in-laws Robbie and Dale Matthews and sister-in-law Gretchen Roser. He held a special place in his heart for Gretchen’s children, Melanie and Nicholas, who spent much time with him and knew him as “UncleRific” and a loving father figure. Rick cared deeply for his extended family, including his nieces and nephews Joanne, Kathy, Frances, Buddy, Marilyn, Lorraine, Phillip, and Richard, their spouses, and many great-nieces and great-nephews. Baby Kayden, the newest among them, brought a little extra joy to his recent days.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Ruby Roller; sisters and brothers-in-law, Vera and Paul Cole, and Jean and William Brock; his father-in-law and dear friend, Sam Roser; and his nephew, Jeff Cole.

Rick had a heart full of curiosity and adventure. Throughout his life, he enjoyed traveling with his wife, especially in their motorhome and on cruises. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle as well as reminiscing about past activities with the Cape Fear Miata Club. At home, he found joy in playing guitar, studying scripture, relaxing with games on his iPad, reading and watching TV. His constant companion was his beloved dog, Gabby, who rarely left his side.

Those who knew Rick will remember him as a man of strong faith, gentle humor, and quiet strength. His life was a reflection of grace, service, and love, offering a steady presence and a humble spirit to all who knew him.

A service to celebrate Rick’s life will be held on Saturday, May 17th at 11:00 AM at Fayetteville Community Church. Visitation will take place prior to the service, from 10:00 to 10:45 AM. 

Memorial donations in loving memory of Rick may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation to support ongoing efforts in research, education, and patient support for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. (www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org/get-involved/ways-to-give)

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