Roy Lautenschleger

Roy Lautenschleger, 77, of Seagrove, North Carolina, departed from this world peacefully, and rejoined with his wife, Donna, of 58 years on the morning of Friday, January 9, 2026.

Roy was born August 10, 1948, in Muskegon, Michigan. At the age of 10, his father passed away. The dairy farm was sold and he and his mom, Lillian, moved to N.C. where she raised him alone. Roy worked many jobs to help his mom as he grew older. Roy later met and married the love of his life, Donna Kay Loggains. Together they created a home in Asheboro, N.C. Upon marrying Donna, Roy also gained a sizeable extended family of 9 brothers and sisters. Over the years, many memories have been shared over meals, gatherings, projects, card games, and camping. As Donna and Roy grew their own family they moved many times from N.C. to Michigan, to Asheboro, to Morehead City, and finally retiring and returning to Asheboro again.

Roy had an incredible work ethic, knew no stranger, and was quick to lend a hand, or give advice. Roy was known for his tales of yesteryear and always loved to hear someone else tell a story as well.

Roy was a skilled electrician, welder, and a general “fixer” of things. He attended college classes and was also self taught. Roy was hired as a plant operator for the town of Morehead City, N.C. in 1987. He soon rose in rank to Waste Water Treatment Supervisor. He is to this day highly regarded by former supervisors and co-workers. Roy proudly retired from that position honorably.

Roy led a full life in spite of chronic lung disease. Through it all he has enjoyed helping his family, friends, and community. These past few years Roy has been homebound. To those who have sent cards, well wishes, called, given care, visited, or volunteered to sit with him as a friend, thank you. Roy was able to remain in his home with his family and pets. The family wishes to express our sincere gratitude and love for your kindness and generous efforts.

Roy was preceded in death by wife, Donna Kay Lautenschleger; his mother, Lillian Barnes Lautenschleger-Pierce; father Harry Lautenschleger; sisters, Betty Lou Thomas and her daughter Debra Thomas; brother, Jerry Lautenschleger.

Mr. Lautenschleger is survived by his three children, Jason Lautenschleger of the home, Kathy L. Graham (Gregory Graham) of New Bern, Barbara Johnson (James Johnson, Jr.) of Asheboro; grandchildren, Jimmy Johnson, Amanda Brady, Jennifer Graham, Kristen Graham, Steven Graham; great grandchildren, Maddie, Cayden, Camden, Abbey, E.J., Victoria; and a host of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 am, Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Ridge Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Brian Faircloth officiating. Burial will follow at New Hope Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8pm, on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Ridge Funeral Home. The family will also receive friends following the burial at the family home.