Alice Elizabeth Roker was a trailblazing figure and cherished member of the Yorktown Heights community. She 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. She made history as the first Democrat, the first African American, and the first woman to serve in elective office in Yorktown’s history. She was described by those who knew her as a dedicated citizen.
“Her death is a loss for the community she loved and enthusiastically supported. 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 also 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. Even after she retired from elected office, Alice offered sound guidance to me and many others,” Yorktown Town Supervisor Ed Lachterman shared.
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.
“The residents of Yorktown were lucky to have her as their elected representative for over 30 years,” shared Diana Quast, Yorktown Town Clerk. “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. To paraphrase a quote by author H. Jackson Brown, Alice earned her success based on service to others, not at the expense of others.”
“Alice Roker served as the face of Town Hall as Yorktown’s Town Clerk for a quarter-century,” Halston Media News wrote in her remembrance.
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.
“She was a dedicated public servant who gave so much to the Yorktown community through decades of service in town government. She was an inspiration to many and will be dearly missed,” New York State Senator Pete Harckham shared on Instagram.
Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who loved her, but her spirit will forever remain a part of the community she helped shape and the lives she touched. May Alice Elizabeth Roker rest in peace, knowing that her legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come.
“Alice Roker was more than just our Town Clerk – she was a trailblazer who transformed how local government served its citizens,” said Jann Mirchandani, Chair of the Yorktown Democratic Committee. “The Yorktown Democratic Committee extends its deepest condolences to Ms. Roker’s family, friends, and all who were touched by her remarkable life of public service.”
We extend our sincere condolences to the Roker family on their loss and thank them for sharing this special woman with us. We celebrate the life and legacy of Alice E. Roker, who was a true Black Westchester Legend!
