November 22, 2015

Sue Baker Roan, 85, of Hartselle, a legend in politics in Morgan County, died peacefully at her home Sun., Nov. 22, 2015. She was born on July 21, 1930, in Morgan County to Max and Texie Rodgers Baker. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bunyan Bryan Roan Sr.; her parents; two sisters, Virginia Baker Shaneyfelt and Ivey Nell Baker Buford; and a son, Timothy Knowlton Jr.

Mrs. Roan is survived by a daughter, Bonnie Roan Prestwood (Lee); a son, Bunyan Bryan Roan Jr.; a sister, Jo Thompson; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She retired from AmSouth (First National) Bank in Decatur and then went to work as a bailiff for Judge David Breland. She held the distinction of being the first female elected to public office when she was elected to the Morgan County Board of Education in 1992. She served as a school board member until being appointed to the position of Morgan County License Commissioner by Governor Jim Folsom Jr. in 1994. She was then elected to that position in 1996. She was known for her hospitality during her 20 years in public office. Deciding not to run again in 2014 was a difficult decision for her as she loved helping others, never turning anyone away. But due to her failing health, she retired in January 2015.

 Roan said, “My main goal was to provide great customer service for the public and be good to the fine employees in this office and I believe I accomplished that.” She loved “the girls” in her office and her family wants to thank them for being so loving and kind to her. A special thanks also to the public who continued to honor her by electing her with such wide majorities at every election. She was a member of First Baptist Church, Hartselle but also enjoyed attending many churches and listening to the wonderful sermons.

Sue and her family and friends also want to thank her family physician whom she loved, Dr. Scott Matthews.

There will be no visitation. The family will have a private graveside service; therefore, they request that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Hospice of the Valley or to the Kids Backpack program at First Baptist Church, Hartselle.