John Anthony Roan

John Anthony Roan passed away peacefully surrounded by his three devoted daughters on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at the age of 79. John was born August 18, 1945, in Dallas, TX, the son of the late John Louis Roan, MD and Louise Paysse Roan. He spent his childhood in Weatherford, TX graduating from high school in 1963. It was during his time in college at The University of Texas at Austin that he met the love of his life, Sherry Myers. They married on September 9, 1967, and together they raised three wonderful daughters Jennifer, Leigh & Kelly.

John earned his undergraduate degree and Master of Business Administration from The University of Texas at Austin in 1968. After graduation, he held a variety of positions at Texas Commerce bank in Houston and BankOne Austin, where he became Executive Vice President and Senior Loan Officer. He served as the assistant vice chancellor for finance at the University of Texas System for 8 years before joining UT Southwestern Medical School in 1997. After 15 years, he retired as the Executive Vice President for Business Affairs.

John served six years in the Texas National Guard from 1968 to 1974. He was active in both professional and community organizations in both Austin and Dallas including UT Southwestern Moncrief Cancer Center, St. Theresa’s Catholic Church and Zachary Scott Theater.

As a father, John was a guiding force and a rock for his girls, always ready with advice, support, or a good laugh. He devoted his life to his family and enjoyed spending time with loved ones, especially his grandchildren. It was his greatest joy to attend sporting events, graduations, performances and vacations.

John enjoyed world travel and had fond memories of his many trips with family and friends. Each year, John gathered with his high school friends for a reunion of laughter, shared memories, and deep camaraderie – friendships that spanned decades and stood the test of time.

John will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, son and friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He is the beloved husband of 55 years to the late Sherry Myers Roan and preceded in death by sister Carol Carmichael. He is survived by his three daughters, Jennifer Athanacio (husband Jon), Leigh Anderson (husband Chris) and Kelly Williams (husband Murray). John was known as Papa to his cherished eight grandchildren: Anna and Natalie Athanacio, Harper and Addie Anderson, and JT, Zack, Ashley and Andrew Williams. He is also survived by his sister Janice Sutton (husband Tom) and brother Bobby Roan.

John’s absence leaves an immeasurable void, but his legacy of love, integrity, and resilience will forever inspire those he leaves behind. Rest in peace, John. You taught us how to live fully, love deeply, and give selflessly. You will forever be our hero.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 3:00 pm at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home located at 5416 Parkcrest Drive, Austin, TX 78731.

In honor of John’s legacy and the causes that were dear to him, we kindly ask that, in lieu of flowers, you consider making a donation to the UT Southwestern Moncrief Cancer Institute. Your generosity will help continue the work and values that John held close to his heart.

https://engage.utsouthwestern.edu/donate-now