Roger Lee Ladd

Roger Lee Ladd, born August 16, 1955, in Durham, North Carolina, went to be with his Lord and Savior peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on Saturday, September 12, 2026.

Roger lived a life rooted in faith, family, service, and love. His faith in the Lord was the most important thing to him, followed closely by the family he cherished so deeply.

At just 13 years old, Roger met the love of his life, Sandra Bailey, at Holton Junior High School. They began dating as teenagers and later attended Fellowship Christian School together. Their love grew through the years, and they shared 51 beautiful years of marriage. Roger and Sandra had the kind of love that most people spend a lifetime searching for—a love built on faith, devotion, friendship, and an unwavering commitment to one another.

Roger was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and beloved member of his community. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Bailey Ladd; his three sons, Jeff (Stephanie), Michael (Kelly), and Kevin (Brooklyn); brother, Jimmy E. Ladd IV (Linda); sisters, Diane Barham and Pamela Isaacs (Larry); his seven grandchildren, Bailey, Reese, Hunter, Grey, Walker, Miller, and Collins; sister-in-law, Nancy Bailey and many cousins. His grandchildren held an especially precious place in his heart, and he treasured every moment spent with them. Roger also had a special love for his four-legged children, Gizmo and Skip, who brought him great joy and companionship.

Roger dedicated many years to serving the Durham community. He served as both a Public Safety Officer for the Durham Police Department and Durham Fire Department, giving his time and talents to protect and serve others. In his younger years, he also worked for J.E. Ladd & Son Transfer, the family moving business.

Roger was also a true entrepreneur. Over the years, he owned and operated a video rental shop, a restaurant, and a security business. For the last 30 years of his professional life, he poured his heart and energy into building a successful private security company. His determination, work ethic, and commitment to those around him were hallmarks of everything he did.

Beyond his work, Roger was a beloved coach and a loyal friend. He had a big heart, a generous spirit, and a way of making the people around him feel valued. He loved the Tar Heels, Elvis Presley, trips to the mountains, days at the beach, and, above all, spending time with the people he loved.

Roger's greatest accomplishment was not measured by his businesses or career, but by the lives he touched and the family he built. He loved deeply, worked hard, served faithfully, and never lost sight of what mattered most.

His family will forever carry his love, his laughter, his wisdom, and his faith in their hearts. Though his earthly life has come to an end, his legacy lives on through Sandra, his children, his grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know him.

Roger was deeply loved, and he will be profoundly missed. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior, where there is no more sorrow or pain, and that one day they will see him again.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 1 pm at Olive Branch Baptist Church. A private family burial will take place following the service. Flowers and donations to Olive Branch Baptist Church are greatly appreciated.

Officiating will be Reverend Tim Wheeler and Associate Pastor Jesse Hembree. A visitation will be held Wednesday evening from 7 pm to 9 pm at Hudson Funeral Home- 211 S. Miami Blvd. Durham, NC 27703.

Pallbearers will be Larry Isaacs, Seth Isaacs, Tommy Hawkins, Jeff Hawkins, Jay Ladd, and David Mahaley.

The family will be hosting a celebration of life lunch at Redwood Ruritan Club from 2:30 until 4:00 following the service and all are welcome. Bring your favorite dessert to share as we fellowship and celebrate his life together.