Roy Edward Abshier

Roy Edward Abshier, 86, of Belleview, Florida, went home to be with the Lord on July 7, 2024. He was born in Ocala, Florida, on March 7th, 1938, and was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Mina Abshier of Belleview. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Lou Abshier, and their three children: Mary Bodzo(Steve), Roy Edward Abshier Jr.(Nancy), and Emery Abshier(Selena); his ten grandchildren: Zach, Jenna, Krista, Jess, Jaycie, Jackson, Cody, Austin, Callie, and Maci and eight great-grandchildren. Roy cherished his family and adored his grandchildren. He was present whenever one of them had a sporting event or a piano recital, always offering his wholehearted support. He will be remembered as a dedicated and faithful husband, father, and grandpa, and will be dearly missed. 

Roy attended Florida State University and proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Belleview, where he served as a men’s Sunday school teacher, deacon and was on numerous committees. His faith in Jesus Christ was evident in how he lived his life, and he always looked for opportunities to share the gospel with others. 

Throughout his professional career, he was a real estate broker and insurance agent. In his later years, he enjoyed helping his son Emery with his blueberry farm. Roy also loved his community and demonstrated that love through his involvement with civic and community clubs and politics. Guided by Ephesians 6:7, “that we are called to serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people,” Roy embraced the principle of service, believing that serving others was akin to serving the Lord. His impactful life included a decade as Mayor of Belleview where he made many lasting contributions. Roy became the first Republican since Reconstruction to be elected to a county-wide office as a two term Marion County Commissioner. Beyond politics, he was respected past master of the Belleview Masonic Lodge No. 95, a charter member of the Belleview Rotary Club, and a dedicated leader serving as Chairman of both the Republican Club of Marion County and the Economic Development Council. He was also active in Marion County Senior Services. 

He enjoyed in recounting tales of his hunting adventures in Texas, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, and the “Scrub.” Among his most cherished memories were those of his hunting trips with both of his sons, friends and especially Peek Hames. 

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to be made in Roy’s memory to the Belleview Rotary Club Foundation, 1720 SE County Hwy 484, Belleview, Florida 34420.

Family and friends are invited back to Church following the Burial for food and fellowship.