Joseph Warren Roby, age 85 of Peabody, MA , loving husband for 55 years of Joan (Kupreance) Roby, of Peabody, died on Wednesday, March 5, 2014, in the Hunt Nursing Home, Danvers.

Born in Boston, the son of the late Clifford and Jane (Sechovich) Roby, he was raised and educated in Salem schools. Following his graduation from Salem High School, Class of 1946, Mr. Roby joined the United States Army. Following his discharge he continued his education at Franklin Tech Automotive School in Boston and established Roby's Service Center in Peabody. He married his wonderful and loving wife, Joan, in 1958 and together they enjoyed the fruits of their labors raising their children and enjoying summer weekends in Lebanon, Maine waterskiing, being with family and friends and having fun. Mr. Roby later took great pride in his children as well as teaching his son, Dana, the family business and automotive repair, which now continues into its second generation of operation as North Shore Automotive.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Roby is survived by his two children, Dana J. Roby of Salem and John W. Roby of Georgetown; two grandchildren, Crystal and her husband, Rob Nolet, of Lynn and Matthew D. Roby of Rockport; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Clifford Roby and a sister, Elinore Swenbeck.

His funeral will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2014, at 12 Noon in the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St., (corner of North Street), Salem. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visitation will be prior to the service on Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon. Interment will be in Cedar Grove Cemetery, Peabody. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Hospice of The North Shore and Greater Boston, 75 Sylvan St., Suite B-102, Danvers, MA 01923. For online guest book or additional information, please call 978-744-0497 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com.