Maury Roe was optimistic and personable and made everyone feel welcomed personally and professionally.
“He had a genuine interest in the welfare and success of his family, friends and associates, actively providing help, counsel and encouragement,” said his son Brian Roe.
In 1980 he was named vice president of Coca-Cola Company in charge of market development. In that capacity and as a senior officer of Coca-Cola International he handled international accounts such as McDonald’s.
He became a senior vice president of Coca-Cola International in 1988. Former Coca-Cola Chairman and CEO Roberto Goizueta wrote to Roe on his retirement: “Every assignment you have undertaken, you have handled with class. You have always been a gentleman, as well as a gentle man.”
A graduate of Red Deer High School in Alberta, Canada and the University of Alberta, Roe served in the Royal Canadian Army and then began his career in 1950 as a salesman in the Coca-Cola fountain sales department in San Francisco.
During his 41-year career he worked in sales promotion, brand management, corporate planning, international accounts, and marketing services. He also completed executive management programs at Stanford and Harvard Universities. The National Secretaries Association named him Boss of the Year in 1970. Roe retired in 1992.
“He always had a positive view of the world and made everyone feel good by just being around him,” said former president of Coca-Cola, Donald Keough. He “really made a difference.”
Maurice C. Roe of Atlanta and Williamsburg, Va., died Dec. 6 of pneumonia. He was 88. A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Jan. 18 at Deer Creek Shores Presbyterian Church, 7620 Lanier Drive, Cumming. Nelsen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
“He had a love and passion for Lake Lanier,” said his friend Dave Polstra.
An avid sailor, he was a member of the U.S. Power Squadron, and enjoyed sailing off Texas, Florida, California and of course Lake Lanier. He was an active member of University Yacht Club in Flowery Branch.
“He was a straight shooter, a genuine guy,” said Polstra, who remembers when Roe sold his home off Lake Lanier. Polstra bought the house and Roe threw a neighborhood party before Polstra in his family moved in. “It was so the neighbors could meet us; then we threw a party for him,” said Polstra.
“He had a nice way about him,” said his friend Mike McDonald. “He was always the one to say ‘let’s get this done and have fun doing it.’ I learned a lot from him.”
Maury was predeceased by his first wife, Grace Roe, and two granddaughters.
In addition to his son, Roe is survived by his wife Joyce Roe of Williamsburg, Va.; daughter Diana Roe Hollis of Stone Mountain; son Glen Roe of Sugar Hill, Ga.; two grandsons and two great-grandchildren.
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