Roy Randall "Pops" Hewitt, Sr.

Roy Randall “Pops” Hewitt, Sr., a man whose hands built more than just concrete foundations, but also deep and lasting bonds within his family and community, passed away on April 29, 2026, in Sioux City, Iowa. Born on August 15, 1951, in the very city he called home all his life, Roy’s journey was marked by strength, resilience, and a heart as vast as the landscapes his work shaped.

Roy was a master of his craft, a jack-of-all-trades whose expertise in construction, concrete, and masonry was well-known and deeply respected. For many years, he led RH Construction, a business fueled by his unwavering dedication and skilled hands. Alongside his son Kori Hewitt, his trusted business partner, Roy took pride in every project completed, every sidewalk poured, and every block laid. One of his proudest moments was signing a million-dollar contract with Beef Products Incorporated—a testament to his hard work and commitment. Beyond business success, Roy found the greatest achievement in the joy he brought to homeowners throughout the Siouxland area, who admired the precision and quality of his work.

To those who knew him, Roy was so much more than a builder. He was a man tough as nails yet possessing a gentle, good-hearted spirit. Anyone who met him quickly recognized his willingness to give the shirt off his back, his laughter echoing through job sites accompanied by a quick-witted joke. His love was unconditional and steadfast, especially toward his family, who remember him for the warmth he brought to family picnics, those memorable Christmases when six of his youngest children were gifted brand-new bikes from “Santa,” and the kind generosity that extended to purchasing their first vehicles. The simple pleasure of sharing a cold drink after a long, hot day of work or sitting quietly next to a bonfire with a hot cup of coffee and a cigarette in hand perfectly captured the essence of Roy’s contented nature.

Roy’s interests enriched his character beyond the business realm. He was an avid pool player, competing in local tavern leagues where the likes of Court Street Tap, Bill’s Bar, Frisbies, Bergies, and Greenville Tap were his second homes. Many friends gathered there, drawn to Roy’s magnetic personality and genuine friendship. An exceptional cook, he delighted in preparing chili, ham and beans soup, goulash, and grilling the perfect steak—a passion that further bonded those fortunate enough to share his table.

Even in adversity, Roy’s spirit shone brightly. Facing a long and courageous battle against multiple strokes and lung cancer, he endured with remarkable dignity and bravery. Though his body weakened and pain cast a shadow over his final days, his heart remained pure gold, shining with strength and love until the very end.

Roy leaves behind a loving family who carry forward his legacy: his ex-wife Shirley Hewitt (Johnson); his eight children Michelle, Melissa, Kori, Tonya, Ginger, Heather, Roy Jr., and Lane; his sister Wilma Mapes; his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his long-time companion Liz Audus. Also holding him dear are his significant others: McKayla Anderson, Alisa Leckband, Mindy Coon, Suzanne Russelle, Thomas Rhymer, Rich Fredericksen, Chaim Wilde, Joshua Matney, William Laulemender, and Ray Hawk.

He is preceded in death by his beloved parents Madeline and Mike, sisters Bessie and Wilma’s siblings Walter, Danni, and George, best friend Herb Emmart, and sister-in-law Joani Dawdy.

Roy Randall “Pops” Hewitt, Sr. was a man whose hands molded concrete and whose heart molded a family—a rock solid foundation of love, laughter, and memories that will endure for generations to come. His life was a testament to hard work, loyalty, and the quiet power of kindness. Though he now rests, the echoes of his jokes, the warmth of his love, and the strength of his spirit remain woven into the very fabric of those who knew and loved him.