Family and friends gathered December 29, to celebrate the legacy of Queen and Conqueror, Mrs. Pauline Roan.
Pauline was born in Beaufort, South Carolina, December 14, 1944, to the union of Dan and Reather Brooks. She was the 7th child born to this union. Both her parents preceded her in death.
She started her young life in Jacksonville, Florida, where she was reared by her maternal grandmother, Ida Williams and her loving “Aunt Bunny,” Whilemena Edwards. Pauline attended the school system in Jacksonville Florida, graduating from Douglas Anderson High School in 1964.
In Jacksonville, she met the “love of her life,” daring young soldier, Robert F. Roan, whom she married at the tender age of 21. Pauline felt lucky to be an Army wife as she was able to travel the world. During their marriage the couple had four children, three soldiers and a bratty baby girl, “Shorty.” Pauline adored her children and family and didn’t trust many people with her children. She was viewed as a talented homemaker, nurturer, caregiver and dedicated wife.
After moving to Chicago in 1976, the city became home. She was a committed member of Blooming Rose Deliverance church for many years where she served on the Usher board.
She attended Kennedy King College as a Nursing student for a short while. Although she did not finish her program due to family management demands, she always exhibited passion and skill for the profession. Without ever completing the formal training, she lived her life caring and nursing others. Pauline nursed several family members and friends during their walk HOME and opened her home to many. No one was a “stranger,” back in the day. There was not a person she would not feed or show concern to.
Pauline was dedicated to whatever task she started. After her children were older, she began a journey into the workforce, employed by Village Discount Thrift Stores for over two decades, where she was a friend and confidant to many. She ended her tenure with the company as an assistant store manager. Pauline was glad to have extra time again to nurture and spoil her family.
Pauline enjoyed Gospel and Blues music especially, as well as cooking for friends and family. She traveled to see her grandchildren every year no matter where they lived.
A two-time cancer survivor, Pauline suffered from other illnesses as well. Even in her last days, she remained humble and strong, never complaining. On December 21, Pauline was called to her final resting place.
Pauline is survived by her husband of 56 years, Deacon (SFC) Robert Roan Sr.; her children Carlos Roan, Robert Roan Jr., Anthony Roan, MASHAKII Saley-Roan and special daughter, Cheryl Mc Clinton; and sister Lula Williams.
The Heaven Send-Off Services for Mrs. Pauline Roan was officiated by Pastor Rosie D. Bond and Reverend Irving Richards at Bread of Life Missionary Baptist Church, 1924 W. 63rd St, Chicago, IL. She was buried at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 West Hoff Road in Elwood, IL.
