Michael Roach, Jr.

Michael Roach Jr., affectionately known as “Mike,” “Big Mike,” and “Soup,” was born in Washington, D.C. on January 22, 1974, to Michael Roach Sr. and Rozina Stewart. On May 7, 2026, surrounded by love, Mike peacefully gained his wings. 

Mike was educated in the District of Columbia Public School system. He began his career in sheet metal with Stromberg Sheet Metal, where he developed a true passion for the trade and became a master of his craft. He dedicated 22 years of service to Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), where he was respected for his leadership, strong work ethic, and commitment to excellence. Mike proudly served as a Supervisor until his retirement.

A proud member of New Grove Missionary Church, Mike carried himself with faith, confidence, and love for people.

Mike truly enjoyed life. He loved watching football and was a devoted fan of the Miami Dolphins. He enjoyed going to the movies, attending comedy shows, traveling, cookouts, playing games with family, and discovering great food and restaurants. One of his favorite places to visit was the Dominican Republic, where he enjoyed the water, the beauty, culture, and adventure each trip brought him.

Mike had a personality that could never be forgotten. He was known for always smiling, joking, and leaving people with a compliment or words of encouragement. He had the gift of gab and believed his smile could turn a “no” into a “yes.” One phrase many will always remember him saying was, “Love dat money.” Whether dressed for a special occasion or simply stepping out for the day, Mike carried himself with confidence, style, and presence. Once you got to know him, you quickly learned he was smooth-talking, funny, full of life, and genuinely cared for people.

Above all else, Mike was a devoted family man. He loved his children and grandchildren deeply, and they were the center of his world. His love, wisdom, laughter, and strength will continue to live on through them and through everyone blessed to know him. Though his passing leaves an unimaginable void, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him most.

Mike leaves to cherish his precious memories: his parents, Michael Roach Sr. (Helen), Rozina Stewart & Stepdad Wayne Jackson; his loving children, Ranneisha (Daniel) Powell, Michaela Champion, Deon Champion, Diamond Champion, Ronald Champion, and Kennedi Roach; his cherished grandchildren, Kaomi, Bruce, Azhir, Kaion, Kyair, and Azira; his siblings, Michell(Ezell) Taylor, Sadie, Archie, and Lonnie Roach; his goddaughter, JaParis Champion; his nieces, Susan Vega Roach and Emyri Taylor; his nephews, Ezell Taylor III and Ray Vega Roach; the mothers of his children, Marcella Champion and Quinta Hemphill; his extended family, Sakethea Earles-Champion and Vincent Fox; along with a host of loving relatives, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Mike was preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, aunt, and his favorite cousin, Ronnie, all of whom he loved dearly “Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23