Patricia Roles

Obituary

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Pat Roles on November 4, 2025. Her life reflected an unwavering belief in the power of grace and compassion. “Miss Pat” was born and raised in Beckley, West Virginia. Pat and her older brother, Roger, were the first in their family to graduate from high school — a milestone she was proud of because her parents had each only completed eighth grade. Her father was a coal miner, and from those humble beginnings, Pat went on to earn her master’s degree from Virginia Tech, beginning a career as an English Teacher and School Counselor that would span more than four decades in service to students.

Pat married her high school sweetheart, Joe Roles, in 1960. They celebrated 64 years of marriage last December before Joe’s passing in January 2025. A long-serving counselor and department chair in Lee County Schools, Pat was Joe’s steadfast partner in life and in education. Together, they raised two daughters — Aimee and Angela — both proud Mariner High School alumni.

Aimee, a 2002 School District of Lee County Golden Apple recipient, went on to distinguished leadership roles at Apple and Nespresso. Angela, also a Mariner alumna, has worked in the district for many years as a math teacher and administrator and is now the principal of Cypress Lake High School. Pat and Joe’s legacy continue through their granddaughter, Mackenzie Canney, now a high school senior at Cypress and truly the light of their lives.

Pat’s career journey reflects her lifelong commitment to students, both in and beyond the classroom. She began teaching in Virginia, first at Ft. Lewis Elementary in Salem, then at William Byrd High School in Vinton, and later at Cave Springs Junior High in Roanoke. During this time, she also led co-curricular activities including cheerleaders, Debate Club, Drama Club, junior and senior class plays, and National Forensic League activities, fostering creativity, confidence, and teamwork among her students. In addition to her teaching, she served as Guidance Department Head in Virginia, mentoring both students and colleagues.

Pat continued her work with exceptional students at The Achievement Center in Roanoke before moving to Florida and joining Port Charlotte High School as a counselor. She then dedicated more than two decades to Lee County Public Schools, serving at Cape Coral High School, North Fort Myers High School, Fort Myers High School, and South Fort Myers High School. At North Fort Myers, she was Guidance Department Head for over eighteen years, continuing her leadership in supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth.
Those who knew Pat will remember her kindness, her calm presence, and her steadfast dedication to helping every student find their path. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched — through her work, her mentorship, and the love she poured into her family.

The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of memories and support shared by friends and colleagues.

Please join family and friends as we come together to remember, honor, and celebrate the beautiful life of Patricia. A celebration of life is scheduled for Wednesday, December 18, 2025, at 4:00pm at St. Hillary’s Church ~ 5011 McGregor Blvd., Ft Myers, FL 33901

“Forever in our hearts, her love continues to shine.”