Many Turn Out to Remember Jewelry Store Owner

People from near and far crowded into the Branchburg Funeral Home Thursday to remember a man they considered to be “great.”

Those who knew, worked with and bought jewelry from Roy DeVoe said he was someone who was always devoted to his family and his work.

“He was the nicest man in the world,” said Jon Skolnick, who served as an attorney for DeVoe and knew him for 20 years. “This is just a shame.”

DeVoe was in his store— on Route 202—by 19-year-old Bridgewater resident Michael Koury, who then cut his throat and killed himself.

Authorities have said Koury was initially demanding jewelery from DeVoe’s daughter before fatally shooting the store's owner.

And for those who knew DeVoe, it is expected that he would do anything to protect his family, and that he was completely devoted to them.

“He would definitely jump in front of anything for his family,” Skolnick said.

Janet Pennisi, who also served as an attorney for DeVoe, said the man was a great father.

“There is no doubt in my mind,” she said. “His kids always came first.”

A viewing for DeVoe was held Thursday at the Branchburg Funeral Home on Route 202, followed by a service. The parking lot of the funeral home was packed as those who knew DeVoe and his family came out to pay their respects.

“Roy was an honest businessman,” Skolnick said. “And he was always in a good mood.”

According to the obituary released from the funeral home, DeVoe was born in New Brunswick, and had been living in Hampton for the past six years. He opened his jewelry store in Bridgewater nine years ago after operating his business in Piscataway for 15 years.

DeVoe was a lifetime honorary member with the New Jersey State Policemen’s Benevolent Association, according to the obituary.

Surviving are DeVoe’s three daughters Angela DeVoe, Francesca DeVoe and Danyel Suzan; his son Nolan DeVoe; and his fiancée Colleen Noke.

To send condolences to the family, follow this link to the funeral home’s guestbook.