Mark Steven Roach

Mark Steven Roach of Knoxville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on May 7, 1954, in Florence, Alabama, to Jack and Nelle Roach, Mark graduated from Holston High School and built a successful career in sales. He owned and operated several businesses, including a market and deli, a scuba shop, and trucking agencies. He had a natural gift for connecting with people and loved entertaining friends and family.

A proud Christian and longtime member of Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Mark was also a Mason. He was a devoted supporter of University of Tennessee football and basketball, operating concession stands for both for more than twenty years. His great passion was SCUBA diving; as a certified instructor, he led many dive certification trips to the Florida Keys.

For the last 26 years of his life, Mark met the challenges of being an incomplete quadriplegic after a serious automobile accident with remarkable strength, determination, and a sharpened wit. He learned to drive a van with hand controls and continued working in sales, successfully selling handicap-accessible vans. His resilience created a meaningful second chapter that allowed him to remain deeply present in the lives of his children, family, and friends.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Jack T. Roach and Nelle O. Roach. He is survived by his children, Roxanne Jones (Rick Jones), Chelsea Bush (Brian Bush), and Evan Roach; grandson Emerson Roach; step-grandchildren Landon, Abby, and Bailey; step-great-grandson Nico; brothers Mike Roach (Debbie), Jeff Roach (Charlsie), and John Roach (Elaine); cousins Pat Lynch, Penny Lynch, and Elaine Zoeller; and many nieces and nephews. The family is grateful for the compassionate care provided by caregiver Debbie Russell and UT Hospice.