It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved union brother, Roy Joe Elam, on January 19, 2026. Born on December 10, 1945, Roy dedicated his life to his family, friends, and career as a skilled tradesman.
Roy’s legacy at American Airlines began in 1987, where he worked tirelessly for over 26 years, ultimately retiring in 2013 as an Overhaul Mechanic – Welder. His commitment to excellence and dedication to his craft earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues.
As we mourn the loss of our dear brother Roy, we remember his contributions to our union family and the impact he had on those who worked alongside him. We take comfort in the memories of his time with us and the knowledge that his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.
During this difficult time, we ask that you keep the Elam family in your thoughts and prayers. May they find solace in the love and support of their friends, family, and union community.
Rest in peace, Brother Roy. Your memory will be cherished, and your contributions to our union will never be forgotten.
Roy Joe Elam
December 10, 1945 — January 19, 2026
Chelsea
Roy Joe Elam went to Heaven on Monday, January 19, 2026. He was joyfully greeted by his son, Greg, and his parents, Mildred and Leroy Elam.
Roy was born on December 10, 1945, to Leroy and Mildred (Gregory) Elam. He attended Chelsea Public Schools and graduated with the Class of 1964.
Roy was a man of his word. If he told you he was going to do something, you could be sure it would happen. He loved watching all sports, especially OU Sooners football and softball. He also loved playing cards. If there was a pitch or poker game within a 50-mile radius, Roy would be there. He made many lifelong friends through those games. Even while living in a skilled nursing facility, his friends came to him to play cards.
Another of Roy’s favorite things was dancing. He would travel as far as Kansas just to find a good band and a place to dance.
When Roy was a young newlywed, he needed some extra cash to get established in an apartment and buy groceries. He went to his granddad Elam and asked for a small loan. Of course, his granddad was more than willing to help. He told Roy, “If I can’t do somebody some good while I’m on this earth, then what good am I?” Roy lived his life by those words—always there to help anyone in need, whether financially or through moral support.
After his son Greg passed away, Roy knew he would need to step up as a father figure to his granddaughter, Taylor. He made that commitment and never wavered.
Roy was the epitome of kindness and generosity, always putting others before himself. His selflessness was evident in his daily life. His kindness was a beacon that drew people to him and is one of the many qualities his loved ones will miss most.
Roy was married three times and often joked that he could have been married five times. Sadly, he never found the love of his life.
Roy was also known as a prankster. He loved workplace shenanigans, and his coworkers never knew what to expect next—from tying fishing line to a toy mouse and pulling it out from under a vending machine to make it look real, to placing laxative in ice cream that a coworker kept eating without permission.
Right out of high school, Roy went to work for Dunlap Manufacturing. He later worked several years for Douglas Aircraft. He also worked alongside his father at Elam’s DX in Chelsea. Later, he took a job with Phillips as a “doodle bugger.” Finally, Roy landed a position with Americal Airlines, where he worked for 25 years until retirement. Not one to sit still, he later worked for a friend making horse bits for nine more years.
Roy was very proud of his Indian heritage. His grandmother came to Oklahoma from Georgia on the Trail of Tears. He leaves behind a legacy of deep love for family. Roy had a large family and was equally proud of each and every one of them.
Roy is survived by his three sons: Michael Elam, Brian Elam, and Kyle Elam; and three bonus children: Scott England, Stacey England, and Todd Shepherd. He is also survived by his brothers, Jimmy Elam and Jerry Elam (wife Carol); sisters, Nelda Conger, Diana Garner, and Betty Mitchell (husband Larry); grandchildren, Brittany Elam, Taylor Shockey (husband Jeff), Rionna Beard, Tianna Collins (husband Ray), Tyler Elam, Tristan England, Gracelynn Shepherd, and Jax England; and great-grandchildren, Nando Valenzuela, Lynette Malone, and Creed Shockey. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins who are deeply saddened by his passing.
Roy was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and Leroy Elam; his son, Gregory Elam; and his sister-in-law, Renee Elam.
Words cannot express the love and appreciation we have for our cousin Karen Immemschuh. She was there for Roy through all his doctor’s appointments and hospital stays, all while tending to her own medical needs. She is truly an amazing woman and was Roy’s angel here on earth.
He was truly one of a kind.
Visitation
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
1:00 – 7:00 pm (Central time)
Chelsea Funeral Home
601 Vine St, Chelsea, OK 74016
Family will greet friends from 4-6:00pm
Family will Greet Friends
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
5:00 – 7:00 pm (Central time)
Chelsea Funeral Home
601 Vine St, Chelsea, OK 74016
Funeral Service
Thursday, January 29, 2026
Starts at 11:00 am (Central time)
Calvary Lighthouse
417 W 6th Street, Chelsea, OK 74016