Mark Steven Roach

Mark Steven Roach of Knoxville, TN passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 15, 2026 at the age of 71.  He was born on May 7, 1954 to Jack and Nelle Roach in Florence, Alabama.  After graduating from Holston High School, he had a successful career in sales.  He also owned several businesses including a market and deli, a scuba shop and trucking agencies.  Mark enjoyed entertaining and being around people and his sales background was a natural fit for his endeavors.

Mark was a proud Christian, a member of Eastminster Presbyterian Church and a Mason.  He was a huge University of Tennessee football and basketball fan and supporter, and operated concession stands at both for over twenty years.  Mark's other passion was SCUBA diving and as an instructor he led many dive certification trips to the Florida Keys.

Mark spent the last 26 years of his life confined to a wheelchair after an auto accident left him an incomplete quadriplegic.  The challenges were many but he met them with a strength and determination few could imagine.  This included sharpening his wit and sense of humor.  He learned how to drive a van with hand controls to take himself to a sales job, selling of all things, handicap vans.  No surprise, he was a great at it.  When most would have given up, Mark's resilience allowed him to have a meaningful second act.  It allowed him to be in our lives, his kids, his family, and friends.  And for that, we are grateful.  And we are even more grateful knowing he is finally free and forever walking beside us.

Preceded in death by his parents, Jack T. Roach and Nelle O. Roach.

Mark is survived by his children, Roxanne Jones (son-in-law Rick Jones), Chelsea Bush (son-in-law Brian Bush) and Evan Roach; grandson Emerson Roach; step grandchildren, Landon, Abby, and Bailey; step great grandson, Nico; brothers, Mike Roach (Spouse Debbie), Jeff Roach (Spouse Charlsie), and John Roach (Spouse Elaine); cousins, Pat Lynch, Penny Lynch, and Elaine Zoeller; and many nieces and nephews.

The family thanks caregiver Debbie Russell and UT Hospice for their compassion and care.  

A private gathering for family and close friends is planned for a future date.

Condolences may be expressed at www.mynattfh.com.