James R. Blyth

James Roger Blyth, known to all as Roger, age 76, of Washington, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025, surrounded by his family. In the end, it was his heart that gave out; which is fitting for a man who gave so much of it to everyone he loved.

Born on May 5, 1949, Roger, the son of Joe Van Hudson and Marilyn Blyth, was raised in Squirrel Hill by his maternal grandparents, James and Edna (Oliver) Blyth. They instilled in him the values of hard work, kindness, and loyalty that guided him throughout his life. The Blyth family lived in a building that also served as the first official headquarters of the American Rabbit and Cavy Breeders Association, an organization his grandfather helped establish and lead. Growing up in that unique home - where family, dedication, and community blended - helped shape Roger into the grounded and devoted man he became.

He was the devoted husband of the late Frances (Doby) Blyth, whom he married on February 22, 1975. They shared 37 wonderful years together before her passing in August 2012.

Roger, a proud veteran, enlisted in the Air Force in July 1968. He served as a heavy equipment mechanic, stationed at Phan Rang Air Force Base during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in July 1974.

After returning home, Roger began working at Pankoff Ford before following his lifelong calling in public service. He became a police officer because he wanted to be helpful to people, and to be the kind of person others could count on in their hardest moments. He joined the City of Washington Police Department in March 1975, dedicating 37 years to protecting and serving his community. Through his dedication, leadership, and integrity, he rose through the ranks and retired as Chief of Police in 2012.

Roger was also a proud 32° Mason, member of Sunset Lodge 237. He was dedicated to the brotherhood and principles of Freemasonry that reflected the values he lived by every day — integrity, service, and compassion for others. He was also a proud member of FOP Lodge 95, PIN Club, Edwin Scott Linton American Legion Post # 175, Disabled Veterans of America, and Scottish Rite.

He was known for his smile, kind heart, and quiet strength. He enjoyed watching movies and making regular Costco runs, which often resulted in him purchasing more for his family than for himself. Roger delighted in bringing his grandson Arlo gifts both practical and slightly impractical. Treasures from their adventures together or things he’d saved simply because he knew Arlo would love them. He loved trying new restaurants, though his all-time favorite was always Outback Steakhouse.

He found joy on beach vacations or any new place he could explore, experimenting with new recipes, watching the stars from his deck at night, and sharing Monday morning breakfasts at Eat’n Park with friends. He also enjoyed some time at the American Legion, where he could relax over a few beers and good conversation.

Family was the center of Roger’s world. He loved Sunday dinners and spending time with his loved ones — doing anything and everything together, as long as they were near. Roger was an incredible husband, father, father-in-law, and grandfather; devoted, patient, and endlessly giving. He showed his love not through grand gestures, but in the steady, everyday ways that mattered most.

He took immense pride in raising his daughters to be independent, kind, and full of empathy — qualities that reflected the best parts of him. He had a deep love for animals, especially dogs. His loyal companion Peabody was always by his side, along with the other family dogs — Webster, Milo, Petey, and Paisley — each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Above all, Roger adored his family. He is survived by his daughters, Amy Blyth Whipkey and her husband, David Whipkey, and Elena Blyth and her husband, Andrew Faingnaert; and by his cherished grandson, Arlo, who brought him endless joy.

He shared a lifelong friendship of more than 50 years with his best friend, Edward Cochran, whose steadfast companionship was a constant source of support and laughter throughout his life.

Roger will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and former colleagues who will forever remember his love, humor, devotion, and generosity.

Friends and family will be received from 2 to 8 P.M. on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, PA 15301. The FOP Lodge 95 of Washington, PA will honor the Chief with a Police Service at 7:00 P.M, to be followed by a Sunset Masonic Lodge 237 Service at 7:30 P.M.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:45 A.M. on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Washington.

He will be laid to rest in Washington Cemetery where Military Honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 175 as well as the United States Air Force.

Contributions may be made in Roger's memory to the Ohio State Vet Hospital  at https://vmc.vet.osu.edu/giving