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Jack Roop’s Journey

By: Isabell Roop

Life is not about what happens but how you react to what happens. For one man, life was

a journey. Each journey led him down a different road. Jack lived in a small coal camp with no

flashing lights, a baseball field, a company store, and a school. He was the fourth of six siblings

and the peacemaker of the family. Jack’s dad was known for his hard work in the underground

coal mines. Although his dad worked countless hours, the job did not provide a constant income

for the family. His mom worked many tedious and demanding jobs for families in the

community. His parents worked hard to keep the family fed and clothed. Jack was taught to love

and respect all people, look beyond self, give until it hurts, and find the silver lining in all

circumstances. Times were difficult for this family, because the economy was stressed due to the

Great Depression. However, this family was determined to thrive, devoted to each other, and

each held tight to their core values.

Jack’s determination to thrive was evident in his early years. Life in the coal camp was a

challenge and racial segregation was rampant. His daily one mile walk to school often became a

run to avoid the rock throwing communities. All grades were in one classroom, yet he worked

hard to concentrate and do well. Joy came each day after school as he jumped on the coal train

for a ride home. Homework often took a backseat to times spent with family and friends. Jack

loved to play outside and laugh. On occasion, he would sneak down to the neighboring

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communities and throw rocks on the metal roofs with his Italian friend, Pasco. He loved the

camaraderie of all those around him regardless of race or ethnicity. During his adolescent years,
life took a dramatic turn. While hanging out with friends and passing a football, he was struck in

the eye by the end of a football. He lost his eye, and his life was changed forever. His quick wit

and positivity found humor in taking out his artificial eye to horrify others. In addition to his

physical challenges, he was faced with personal challenges. His father died from black lung, and

his family struggled to recover from their house fire. His reaction to these hardships was met

with a determination to thrive.

As time progressed, Jack’s devotion to family and others led him to become a successful

man. He graduated high school and worked as a mechanic for 17 years. Although bologna

sandwiches were his staple for weeks on end, he eagerly sought out those in need and found joy

in giving to them secretly. During this time, his life became sweeter as he married his high

school sweetheart, had three children, and delighted in his grandchildren. Jack followed his

parent’s tutelage and worked hard to provide for his family. Life had financial challenges, but

Jack was always a problem solver. He owned and operated a real estate company, collection

agency, and monument company which provided financial security. He persistently managed to

find a source of income and persevere. Jack continued to love his family and press on as he was

taught. His personal goal was achieved as he proudly witnessed his two sons and daughter

become first generation college graduates. His family devotion paid off.

Jack was respected throughout the community, and his political career began to evolve.

He was elected as a county commissioner. During his six year tenure, he strengthened the

county’s infrastructure and financial resources. His core values of denying self and giving to

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others were evident in his work ethic. His love and respect for all people was his guiding force as

he was elected to the House of Delegates. Problem solving and peacemaking were evident in his
ten years of service to the state. He continued his pursuit of public service an additional three

years as the head of the regional jails and thirteen years as the assistant state treasurer. Jack was

always known for giving his time and finances back to his community. He created a scholarship

fund in honor of the local elementary school. He served on many nonprofit community boards to

develop and create opportunities for local individuals. His conversation would ultimately circle

around other’s needs instead of his own. He understood that the measure of a man was not in

what he kept in life but in what he gave away.

Jack knew that life was a journey. Each journey led him down a different road. Each road

was following a path which composed the network of his being. Making right choices and

following the voice of his heart was his first priority. Sometimes, Jack was at the wheel

controlling his destiny. Other times, he became the passenger and had no access to the wheel. At

those times, Jack put his trust in the One at the wheel. Blessings and peace surrounded him.

Sixteen years ago, I had the privilege of meeting this special man named Jack. In a

hospital room in Charleston West Virginia, he welcomed me into his family as his first

granddaughter. I know him fondly as Poppy. For years, he has showered me with love and

respect. He has instilled in me a good work ethic, gracious and positive attitude, and an ability to

see the good in all people. He has guided my steps with notorious quotes like, “Nothing good

happens after midnight,” and “Don’t burn your bridges, you might have to cross back over

them.” Over the years, we have made a commitment to enjoy frequent phone calls and visits

together. His presence in my life is a guiding force. He is always able to share unselfishly, give

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graciously, and offer wise words of encouragement and wit at the most difficult times. I have

grown and matured through his tutelage, wisdom, and knowledge.

 At the young age of 86, Poppy’s physical struggles have become his greatest nemesis.

Dialysis three times a week and a recent stroke have caused a brief setback in his life. However,

Poppy understands that life is a journey, and he continues to persevere and find the joy in each

situation. Regardless of the current circumstance, he continues to find contentment and pass on a

legacy of optimism, peacemaking abilities, problem solving qualities, the importance of

obtaining an education, and a devotion to family, friends, and community. Poppy has taught me

how to love and respect all people, look beyond self, give until it hurts, and find the silver lining

in all circumstances. Life is not about what happens but how you react to what happens. Through

the lens of my grandfather’s life, I have a greater appreciation for this statement. This great life

lesson is a treasure that I will pass on for the generations to follow.