James Roger Upchurch

James “Roger” Upchurch was born on March 16, 1960, at Hidden Oak Farm to Oakley and Vela Upchurch. Raised in the Sumpter community alongside his nine brothers and sisters, Roger’s childhood was rooted in hard work, faith, and family. Life on the farm meant long days of farming, but it was also filled with laughter, mischief, love, and memories that would shape the man he became.

In 1995, Roger met the love of his life, Jill. They were soon married, and Roger proudly became a father to his stepdaughter, Chelsey. Together they later welcomed their daughter, Savannah, who became the light of his world.

Roger was a hardworking man with an entrepreneurial spirit. His love of the outdoors led him into careers in logging and telephone line construction before he built his own telecommunications company, R&L Contracting, from the ground up. Through determination, integrity, and countless hours of hard work, he created a successful business. Even through his success he remained humble and generous. His success wouldn't have been possible without friendships along the way, especially his dear friend Larry Sapp.

Roger found his greatest peace in nature. Whether riding horses, four-wheelers, or side-by-sides through the trails, exploring the woods, or caring for the farm, he believed the land was something to be protected and cherished. He instilled that same appreciation for God’s creation in his family.

When he wasn’t tending the farm or working, Roger could often be found with family and friends at horse shows throughout Kentucky and Tennessee. After years of raising, training, and showing horses, one of his greatest joys was watching his girls carry on the tradition. Some of his favorite moments were the quiet ones—sitting on the front porch with Savannah, riding the trails together, talking about life, and simply enjoying each other’s company.

Roger had a lifelong love of history and a remarkable gift for mathematics. He was naturally curious, mechanically gifted, and could solve problems that seemed impossible to others. He was known for his quiet wisdom, steady presence, and strong work ethic, but those who knew him best will remember his kind heart, generosity, and deep love for his family.

Roger was a member of New Hope Baptist Church and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. His faith was a quiet but steady foundation throughout his life.

It is especially fitting that Roger’s story began and ended at Hidden Oak Farm. It was more than his home—it was part of who he was. It was where he worked, raised his family, found peace, and built a lifetime of memories. He will be laid to rest there, on the land that shaped his life and held his heart.

Roger is survived by his brothers, Larry Upchurch and Dale Upchurch (Lisa); his sisters, Mary Davis (James Ralph), Lynda Upchurch, Ann Gregory, and Shirley Hughes (Thurman); his daughter, Savannah Skeens (Bryant); his stepdaughter, Chelsey Humphrey; and his step-granddaughter, Rose Humphrey, brother-in-law, Frank Wright; sister-in-law, Wilma Upchurch; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oakley and Vela Marie Upchurch; his sister, Sue Wright; and his brothers, Ralph Upchurch and Bobby Gene Upchurch.

Roger’s legacy is one of dedication, humble strength, and love—for his family, his friends, his faith, and the land he called home. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will live on in every trail through the woods, every horse show, every sunset over Hidden Oak Farm, and in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love him.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, between 5 pm – 8 pm in the chapel of the funeral home. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 11 am at the Hicks-Vaughn Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in the Hidden Oak Farm Cemetery.

Hicks-Vaughn Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.