Roy Michael Vanderwood, 71, of Oak Grove, Missouri, passed away Sunday, October 30, 2016.  Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 9^th at Missouri State Veterans Cemetery, Higginsville, MO.

Roy was born November 21, 1944, in Kansas City, Missouri, and was adopted by Abel and Helen (McCarthy) Vanderwood.  He graduated from Blue Springs High School in 1962.  In 1966, Roy graduated from Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, MO, where he majored in theater.  After graduation, he joined the Army, serving 2 tours in Vietnam, and became Staff Sergeant of Operation Intelligence in the Infantry.  Roy was a debate and drama teacher at Hickman Mills High School from 1973 to 1976.  In the late ‘70s, he was an actor in New York for 5 years.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Dr. Vanderwood.  He leaves behind his longtime partner, Matthew Buchanan of the home.

Arrangements:  Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, MO   816-690-4441