Roger Elam

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our father, Roger Melvin Elam, (79), of Cincinnati, Ohio, who passed away holding our hands on September 7, 2024.

Roger was born to Frank and Ella Elam, on September 1, 1945, in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. He grew up in Springboro, Ohio and graduated from Carlisle High School. He served in the Armed Forces and later graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a degree in Education. Roger went on to be a successful and admired coach of several sports, most notably, basketball. Through teaching and coaching he impacted hundreds of lives with his passion, determination, and generosity. While he is known as a teacher and coach to many, his greatest role was being a father to Cyndie, Steve, and Lisa.

Roger was known for and will be remembered by his undeniable strength. Through years of physical ailments, Roger never gave up, continually stunning medical professionals. He enjoyed watching sports, especially analyzing the Bengals' roster, caring for his dog Gus, woodworking, playing jokes, and creating memorabilia for his children.

Roger is survived by his three children Cyndie Lawrence (Andy), Steve Elam, and Lisa Kelp (Bill), grandchildren Jayden, Garrett, Jackson, Joshua, Ethan, Annie, Chris, and Gracie; siblings Mickey and Jack. Roger was preceded in death by his mother Ella, father Frank, and sisters Jill and Opal.

Roger's legacy will forever live on through the countless lives he touched and the lessons he taught us. Though we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the incredible life he lived. Dear Dad, thank you for being the best father any of us could have asked for. We love you, we will always miss you, and we will continue to make you proud every day until we see you again.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 14th from 12pm-2pm, with memories of Roger's life being shared at 1pm, followed by a small luncheon. Eastgate Community Church, 3235 Omni Drive, Cincinnati, OH, 45245.