Paul J. “Usus” Roche, a lifelong resident of West Scranton, died Thursday morning in the Mercy Hospital Hospice Unit after an illness. His wife is the former Therese Gallagher.
Born in Scranton, son of the late Eugene M and Julia Murphy Roche. He attended the former St. Ann’s High School. He was a member of St. Ann’s Basilica and had a lifelong devotion to St. Ann and the church. He was also a member of the Irish American Men’s Association as well as the American Legion Post 920 Lincoln Heights. He was retired from the Scranton Housing Authority where he worked in the maintenance department. He had also worked for the Little Sisters of the Poor as a driver. He was a United States Air Force veteran serving in the Korean Conflict.
He was an avid Notre Dame fan.
The family would like thank Dr. Fogley and the staff at the Scranton Healthcare Center for their compassionate and loving care.
Surviving are two daughters Mary T. Redel and her husband Tom of Taylor and Jacqueline Roche of West Scranton; a son Paul Roche, Jr of West Scranton; a brother Frank Roche and his wife Margaret of Scranton; nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by an infant son; sisters Veronica Honold and Catherine Dougherty.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 10am in St Ann’s Basilica St. Ann Street, West Scranton.
Friends may call Monday from 4-8pm in the Vanston and James Funeral Home 1401 Ash St. Scranton.
Interment, Cathedral Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Scranton Healthcare Activities Fund 2933 McCarthy St. Scranton 18505 or to St. Ann Basilica Parish 1233 Saint Ann Street Scranton 18504