God Bless Alice Roker
By Dan Murphy
By Dan Murphy
When Alice Roker first moved into Yorktown in 1985, I was a Senior at Yorktown High School. The Roker family bought a home near our house on Ridge Street, and my mother soon formed a friendship with Alice, before she became a political pioneer in Yorktown. Her kindness, love of gardening and democratic principles were what formed their bond.
Her daughter, Courtney Roker Laga said, “She was my mother, my heart, and the most loving grandmother to Sky. I was with her for her last breath, and I will carry her love with me always.”
Alice was best known in Yorktown as the Town Clerk, where she served in Town government for 30 years as Town Clerk and later as a member of the Town Board. She was the first African-American woman elected in the Town of Yorktown’s history, and for that, she will be forever known as a pioneer.
But as Town Clerk, Alice Roker was the friendly face that was more than happy to answer any question and help you with any request. Town employees loved chatting with her and enjoyed the glow she gave out to all.
Calling her one of Yorktown’s “leading and most beloved citizens,” Town Supervisor Ed Lachterman said, “I first got to know Alice in her role as Town Clerk. Not only did she swear me in when I was first elected as a Councilman, but she signed my marriage license. I then had the pleasure of serving with her on the Town Board. And while we were in opposite parties, I found her to be sensible, reasonable and willing to compromise. With Alice, there was never a question as to her determination to put the best interests of the residents first. As a gesture of respect, flags in town are being flown at half-staff in her memory and in honor of her more than 30 years of public service. May Alice Roker rest in peace.”
Town Clerk Diana Quast said, “Alice lit up every room with her smile and always knew how to make people laugh and feel comfortable. She treated everyone with respect and compassion.”
Her Obituary reads:
Alice Elizabeth Roker, a trailblazing figure and cherished member of the Yorktown Heights community, passed away on February 10, 2025. Born on July 11, 1947, in New York, NY, Alice lived a life marked by professionalism, community service, and an unwavering dedication to her loved ones. She was 77 years old.
Alice, a graduate of UCLA with a Bachelor of Arts, paved her way as a journalist, where her excellence in reporting was recognized with an Emmy and a New York Broadcaster’s Association award during her time at WNBC. Her commitment to truth and public service led her to a distinguished career in local government. In 1989, she was elected as the town clerk of Yorktown Heights, a position she held with honor and diligence for many years. Alice’s role as town historian further showcased her love for the community and her desire to preserve its rich heritage. Most notably, she became the first African American in Yorktown’s history to sit on the town government, paving the way for future generations to follow in her footsteps.
Alice’s life was not solely defined by her professional achievements but also by her personal interests and the love she bestowed upon her family. She was an avid gardener, finding joy in the tranquility of nurturing growth and beauty within her surroundings. Above all, Alice cherished the time she spent with her friends, sharing in laughter and creating memories that would last a lifetime. \
Those who knew Alice would describe her as loving, wise, and kind—words that only begin to touch on the incredible woman she was. Her guidance and wisdom were sought by many, and her kindness touched the lives of countless individuals in her community.
Alice leaves behind a legacy of love and leadership, survived by her son, Gregory Bell, her daughter, Courtney Roker Laga, her son in- law, Wesley Laga and her granddaughter Sky Clara, who will carry forward her spirit of compassion and fortitude. Her presence in their lives was a source of endless joy and inspiration, and her memory will continue to be a guiding light for them and all who knew her.
May Alice Elizabeth Roker rest in peace, knowing that her legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come. She was 77.
Quast said, “The residents of Yorktown were lucky to have her as their elected representative for over 30 years.”
