Roma Hemsley

Roma McKnight Hemsley, 99, passed away on March 22, 2025, at Copper Summit Assisted Living in Pocatello, ID. She was born on December 21, 1925, at the home of her parents in Lewiston, UT. Roma’s father, Joseph McKnight was born on February 8, 1888 in Riccarton, Scotland and her mother, Gertrude Spackman was born on January 1890 in Lewiston, UT. Roma was the seventh of nine children, her older siblings are William Henry, Joseph LeRoy, Ruth, Paul Spackman, Mary, and Scott Spackman. Her younger brother and sister were Gertrude and Bruce. Roma was the last of the proud Scottish family to pass away.

Roma enjoyed a joyful childhood surrounded by her siblings and a houseful of cousins, creating beautiful fond memories. Their days were filled with fun and games, as well as the shared responsibilities of working on the family farm and tending to their large garden. In a time before modern farming equipment, a common family mantra was, “Many hands make light work.” Roma was eight years old before the family acquired their first tractor, and she vividly recalled her mother’s skepticism when they brought home their first refrigerator, a “foolish waste of money,” in her opinion.

With many brothers, Roma embraced her role as a bit of a tomboy—climbing trees, playing softball, and enjoying the thrill of competition. She proudly pitched a "mean softball" during her junior high and continued playing on a city team after her family moved to Nampa, Idaho. Her love for the game remained strong throughout her life.

On October 2, 1947, Roma married Thomas Elonzo Hemsley in the Logan, Utah Temple. Their honeymoon included a memorable ten-day stay on Catalina Island before they settled briefly in Nampa, Idaho. Soon after, they moved to Pocatello, Idaho, where Tom continued his career with the railroad. Together, they raised three sons—Lee, Kelley, and Van. Heartbreak struck when they lost Lee in a railroad accident in Idaho Falls on January 9, 1975. Roma and Tom shared a deep and enduring partnership for 52 years until his passing.

Roma possessed an adventurous spirit and a love for the outdoors. Camping, fishing, and hunting with her family were favorite pastimes—she was known to be a skilled shot. The family explored the Canadian Rockies, the Cascades, and the central Rocky Mountains, always seeking out new high-altitude lakes and living off the land along the way. Roma traveled to every state in the U.S. except Alaska and, with Tom, spent a memorable 30-day journey through Europe by rail. For 20 years, they embraced the "snowbird" lifestyle, creating cherished memories with loved ones and friends.

After Tom’s passing, Roma served a two-year mission to New Zealand, a testament to her lifelong dedication as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Roma's competitive spirit and camaraderie extended beyond the outdoors. Her bowling league won city championships two years in a row, and in 1969, she bowled a perfect game to win the singles championship. She loved gathering with friends and family to play cards and other games, bringing laughter and joy to every gathering.

Roma was an accomplished quilter, known for her intricate needlework. She knitted, crocheted, painted, and cultivated a beautiful garden. In the kitchen, she created unforgettable meals and desserts, for her family and loved ones, and for those in need. Later in life, she developed an unwavering devotion to the Utah Jazz, cheering passionately for her team.

Professionally, Roma worked at Idaho State University in the accounting department as the disbursement officer, leading a team that managed all the university’s bills. Her exceptional dedication earned her an honorary degree. She retired two years after Tom, ready to embark on new adventures together.

After returning from her mission, Roma opened her home to her grandson, Tyler, while he pursued his degree in Pharmacy at ISU. This time together was especially dear to her, a chance to nurture and guide another "son."

Roma is survived by her sons, Kelley and Van (Tricia); five grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren (so far). She was preceded in death by her husband, Tom; her son, Lee McKnight Hemsley; granddaughters Sara Elissa Hemsley and Janee Hemsley; daughter-in-law Denise Hemsley; as well as her parents and siblings.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caring angels at Copper Summit for their love and support during Roma's time there.

Roma’s adventurous spirit, creativity, and devotion to family and faith leave a lasting legacy of love and resilience. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew her.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Norton Cemetery in McCammon, Idaho. A viewing will take place prior to the graveside starting at 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at Colonial Funeral Home, 2005 S. 4th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.

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