Roger Dale McCreless, 72, passed away from aplastic anemia on March 25, 2023, at Bethany House in Auburn. He was born Dec. 28, 1950, in Haleyville, Alabama, the son of Hollis Aaron McCreless and Mildred Gore McCreless.
Roger graduated from Haleyville High School in 1969 where he was salutatorian and then went on to obtain his business degree from Auburn University in 1973. On March 5, 1983, he married the love of his life, Lessie Odom McCreless, and together delighted in raising their daughter, Laura McCreless. Roger had an affinity for automobiles, airplanes and motorcycles that started as an adolescent, and ended up developing into his career as a manager at Glynn Smith Automotive where he worked for 31 years. Roger enjoyed going to automotive shows such as Barrett Jackson, the Mecum car shows and “Cruisin’ the Coast” automotive event with his honorary son, Austin Negus. Roger was also a proud supporter of Auburn University and attended many events including football and basketball games. Most importantly, Roger loved the Lord and his family.
Roger was preceded in death by his mother, Mildred Gore McCreless and his father, Hollis Aaron McCreless. Surviving family members include his wife Lessie Odom McCreless, daughter Laura McCreless, stepmother Margaret McCreless Tidwell, sister Iris McCreless Roberts (Kenny), brother Gary McCreless (Yvonne) and many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the staff of Spencer Cancer Center for their loving care of Roger, especially the staff of Dr. Johnson and the infusion therapy staff. Also, to Dr. Pankit Vachhani and the staff of UAB Kirkland Clinic. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Spencer Cancer Center in Opelika, First Baptist Church Opelika Missions Fund or Woof Avenue Rescue in Auburn.
Visitation was held at First Baptist Church of Opelika on March 29, followed by a memorial service in the sanctuary.
Frederick-Dean Funeral Home handled the arrangements.