Napoleon J. Roy

AUGUSTA – Napoleon J. Roy, 99, passed away peacefully on Monday while in residence in the Memory Care unit at the Maine Veteran’s Home in Augusta. Napoleon, aka “Nappy” to all his wonderful caregivers at MVH, proudly served his country as a Marine during World War II. During the conflict, Napoleon was stationed in the Panama Canal, protecting ships using that vital link for naval and supply vessels. When pressed about his service, “Nap” would recall spending nights in the jungles with his guard dog to ensure the safety and security of ship traffic.

Napoleon was born in Waterville on April 22, 1924, the son of Aglae and Paul Roy with whom he was deeply devoted. Napoleon was predeceased by his three siblings, Harold, Lionel, and Theresa. All three boys served in World War II, each in a different service branch.

At the age of 39, Nap married his beloved Juliette and they enjoyed more than three decades of adventure, travel and fostering new friendships as they resided in their castle on Summit Street in Fairfield.

Nap’s love of gardening was the envy of many, as he took great pride in manicured grounds. Upon Julie’s passing, Napoleon returned to the family home on Nudd Street in Waterville, where he would engage neighbors with his wit, contagious flirting, and uncanny ability to repair anything. As a product of the Great Depression, Nap was mindful not to waste and be frugal with what he earned. He doted over Theresa’s three children, Peggy, Donald, and Larry, which he considered his own.

While Napoleon fell a few weeks short of turning 100, his life was filled with a twinkle in his eye and debonair charm. Nap was a lifetime member at the Waterville Elks lodge, where he always enjoyed a game of pool along with dining and dancing. He also had lifetime memberships with the Waterville Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion. Nap’s longevity in life, outliving all his immediate family and friends, was the result of constantly being “on the move” and living life to its’ fullest.

Napoleon’s final years were spent cultivating a new family, a wonderful array of caregivers at the Maine Veteran’s Home. It was there that “Nappy” and his endearing personality led to many staff hugs, activities, and smiles. During his time at the Maine Veteran’s Home, he was blessed to participate in Honor Flight Maine, where he witnessed firsthand the World War II memorial in the nation’s Capital. Napoleon’s family thank all for his care, including Sam at the front desk, Kaila who lovingly guided his final days, Jackie and Dale with activities, all the wonderful CNA’s that provided comfort and the delicious meals prepared by Mike and crew.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. A service will be held the next morning, Saturday, March 9 at 10 a.m. at Gallant Funeral Home, followed by a burial at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville.

An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.