Roger D. Isbell

Everyone who knew Roger could tell you what he loved most in life: his devoted wife of 47 years Sara Nell Patrick Isbell, his adoring daughter Melodi Isbell, Gaither gospel music, Alabama football, a good cup of coffee, and his candy-apple red 1959 Chevy El Camino. They would also tell you Roger was someone who was a man of his word, who always had a terrific story to share, and who humbly lived out his Christian faith every day.

Roger was born May 10, 1943, to Jessie Hugh and Lutie Isbell in Lexington, Alabama, the youngest of five children. He graduated from Coffee High School in Florence, Alabama, and earned a Bachelor of Sacred Music from Samford University in 1967.

For most of his career, Roger held three jobs: music minister at First Baptist Church of Roebuck Plaza, regional salesman for Bristol Metals, and owner/operator of Southeastern Downlinks, which he founded in 1986.

His final days were filled with counting the many blessings in his life, particularly the abundance of faithful friends and the enduring love of his family. He was especially grateful for the exceptional medical care he received from Dr. Jeremy Smith, and all the personnel at UAB Kirklin Clinic Acton Road. His family would also like to thank New Beacon Hospice for compassionate service during his last months.

Roger is preceded in death by his wife and parents; twin infant sisters; sister Florene Hammond (Horace); sister Corene Newton (Warren); brother James C. Isbell (Gloyce); brother, Roy Isbell and niece Vicky Melton.

He is survived by his daughter Melodi, sisters-in-law Mattie Isbell and Jan Isbell; nieces and nephews: Schalon Newton (Giulia), Maylan Newton (Loren), Carol Hammond Harrell, Pallas Hammond Powers, Tim Hammond (Charlene), Angie Isbell, Lynne Isbell Bennett (Stewart), Jimmy Isbell (Beth), and a host of other family and friends.

A celebration of his life will be held Tuesday, March 14, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at Huffman Baptist Church, 700 Huffman Road, Birmingham AL 35235. Visitation will be before the service from 5-7 pm. A brief graveside will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 15 at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Guatemala Missions Fund at First Baptist Church of Roebuck Plaza, 967 Gadsden Highway, Birmingham, AL 35235.