Yvonne B. (Fray) Roye

Yvonne B. (Fray) Roye, known to her friends and family as “Betty,” passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, at the age of 90. She was born in Port Antonio, Jamaica, and was the daughter of the late Hector O’Donald Fray and the late Lucille May (Cunningham) Fray. Yvonne was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who will be remembered for her strength of spirit and single-minded determination.

Yvonne moved from Jamaica to the United States to pursue higher education and a career focused on helping others. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Howard University and later completed her Master of Social Work at Simmons University. During this time, she met her husband, the late Richard H. Roye. They shared a commitment to social service, and Yvonne encouraged Richard to pursue his own graduate studies, eventually leading him into the same profession.

Yvonne worked for many years as a social worker and therapist with the Family Service of Greater Boston. She later served at the Department of Social Services for over a decade before retiring. Throughout her career, she was deeply committed to supporting individuals and families and was respected for her professionalism and compassion.

Outside of work, Yvonne remained active and engaged in her community, for as long as mobility issues allowed. She was a member of the Freedom House Goldenaires in Boston and participated regularly in meetings, lunches, and outings. She was also involved with Trinity Church’s Hearty Perennials, where she valued the fellowship and support of her faith community. Yvonne enjoyed chair yoga at the Milton Senior Center, watching movies on Fridays, flower arranging, and spending time caring for her garden and yard.

One of Yvonne’s favorite traditions was her annual apple-picking trip, which she looked forward to each year. These outings reflected her enjoyment of simple pleasures and time spent with others.

Yvonne is survived by her children, Richard H. Roye, Jr.and his wife Oneida of Sharon, Barbara H. Roye of Milton, and Norman D. Roye of Quincy. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Jeremy, Jonah, Khalen, and Shane, and her great-grandchildren, Miles, Athena, and Elissa. She is further survived by her siblings Kingsley Fray of Georgia, Merrick Fray, Hector Fray, Volney Fray of Jamaica, and William Fray of Georgia, as well as her cousin Pearl, with whom she shared a sisterly bond. She was predeceased by her sister Merle (Fray) Young and her dear cousin Myrna.

Yvonne B. Roye will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her community, and her profession. Her life was marked by service, care for others, and strong personal values.

Visiting hours will be held at the Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home, 326 Granite Avenue, Milton, on Friday, March 20,from 10:00–11:00 a.m. A service will follow at 11:00 a.m., with burial at Milton Cemetery.

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