Roger King, M.D., passed away Monday, October 7, 2024, at the age of 85, due to a military service-related illness. He was a dedicated surgeon who saved countless lives, both during his time with the 85th Evacuation Hospital during the Vietnam War and later in Morgantown, his hometown, where he was closely affiliated with Monongalia General Hospital (Mon Health).
Roger King was born July 28, 1939, in Pittsburgh. He graduated from Morgantown High School in 1957 and continued his studies at West Virginia University, earning a Bachelor of Science in 1961, followed by his M.D. in 1964. He then undertook a one-year internship at the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond, Va., which led to a four- year residency there from 1965 to 1969.
From 1969 to 1971, Roger King served as an Army surgeon, including a year stationed in Vietnam as part of the 85th Evacuation Hospital. For his courageous and exemplary service during the Vietnam War, he was awarded the Bronze Star. The Citation reads in part, “he displayed outstanding medical knowledge, skill, unfaltering initiative, sound judgment, and sincere devotion to duty. During mass casualty situations, acting as triage officer, he rapidly assessed all wounded and directed initial care. His exceptional talents and capacity for hard work were a distinct benefit to the hospital in accomplishing its emergency surgical care mission. His conduct, motivation, and leadership were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Army Medical Department and reflected great credit upon himself, the 85th Evacuation Hospital, and the United States Army.”
After returning from Vietnam, Roger King served as an assistant professor of surgical oncology at the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond (now Virginia Commonwealth University) from 1971 to 1974. He developed a passion for cancer surgery, which remained an important part of his practice throughout his career. Both he and his family often encountered patients who expressed deep gratitude for his life-saving work.
He returned to Morgantown in 1974 and entered private practice as a surgeon. He retired in 2013. Renowned for his expertise, he was frequently called upon by fellow surgeons to assist in difficult surgeries, even in the middle of the night. His unwavering commitment to saving lives and improving health defined his professional life.
For many years, Roger King was an active member of the West Virginia Chapter of the American College of Surgeons, serving first as treasurer and later as governor. Earlier this year, the chapter honored him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his remarkable contributions. He also served on the board of Monongalia General Hospital for many years and maintained an affiliation with West Virginia University Hospital.
In his free time, Roger King enjoyed playing golf and laughing with his friends. He once achieved a hole-in-one, which he humbly described as happening “by accident.” He also loved the beach and spending time at his Grant County ancestral home, Fairview Farm.
During his illness, Roger King received compassionate care from many, particularly his devoted cousin, Melissa McDaniel Frye, affectionately known as Missy, who lovingly provided around-the-clock support.
Roger King will be interred, with full military honors, at a later date commemorating a life of service, dedication, and care.
He is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth (Garett Jones); his sisters, Carolyn Ryan (William), and Jeanne Wooten (Phil); his brother, William King (Susan); and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, October 13, at Hastings Funeral Home, 153 Spruce Street, Morgantown. The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, October 14, in Greater Love Family Outreach Ministries, 200 Frederick Lane, with Pastor Junius Lewis officiating. A luncheon will follow at the Morgantown Marriott at Waterfront Place.
In honor of Roger King’s decades of care delivered to the community through Mon Health Medical Center, a scholarship is being established to support the growth and development of physicians in West Virginia. Please consider a gift, in lieu of flowers. Donations can be sent to the MHMC Foundation, 1200 JD Anderson Drive, Morgantown, WV 26505, noting the King Scholarship.
Condolences may be made to the family at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com.
