Lynn Rochester, 68, known affectionately as “Roy Moon” or simply “Moon,” passed away February 13, 2023, after a sudden illness. He was born in Greenville, SC, December 1954, and spent his first 13 years growing up in Clemson, SC. His family then moved to the Taylors/Greenville area, where he spent the majority of his life.Continue Reading
Lynn Rochester, 68, known affectionately as “Roy Moon” or simply “Moon,” passed away February 13, 2023, after a sudden illness. He was born in Greenville, SC, December 1954, and spent his first 13 years growing up in Clemson, SC. His family then moved to the Taylors/Greenville area, where he spent the majority of his life.
Lynn’s life is difficult to effectively summarize, because he had so many varied interest and talents. He had a marvelous intellect, which enabled him to vigorously pursue a wide range of studies, business ideas, and hobbies – and somehow – simultaneously tackle them all, while neglecting none.
Creatively, he was a genius. This applied to his profession as an electrical engineer, as well as his lifelong passion for music. In the area of electronics, he thought outside the box, and was intuitively innovative (e.g. a Nikola Tesla). Musically he was much more than a master player – he was a prolific, creative writer, producer, and recording engineer. His many original songs were purposely written to avoid duplicating his prior compositions. His goal was to continually. “wow” his fans, So that they might say “His last album was really good, but this new one is great!” Lynn’s alias, “Moon” or “Roy Moon” come from one of his many bands, “Moonpie”, which began in the late 1960s and continued through the mid-1970s. His musical pursuits extended from the ‘60s, well into the 21st century.
A defining example of his determined pursuit of hobbies and interests occurred in the early 1980s – owning and flying an ultralight planes. The fad swept the country then and is still around today. Pilots of ultralights (typically crafts weighing under 250 lbs) do not need a traditional pilot’s license. Instead, pilots of powered ultralights who will take off and land need a Sport Pilot Certificate (receive actually inflight training and pass a written test). Ultralights cannot fly over populated areas like towns or crowds of people, and cruising altitude should not be under 500 feet, nor higher than just under 10,000 feet. Lynn became infatuated with the idea, bought and ultralight kit, built it, and spent many hours flying around Upstate South Carolina at several thousand feet – picture a tricycle with wings. Ultralights are to the famous Lindbergh plane as Lindbergh’s was the Air Force One.
Lynn built his electronics business “Ampworks” from scratch, beginning about 1980 and continuing until this passed year. He was neither a stranger to hard work, nor fearful of it. Whatever it took to grow “Ampworks” he was willing to do, always with an emphasis on perfection and total fairness to his clients. All his work, from the smallest to the largest projects, came with a minimum one-year guarantee.
His personal character was rare and inspirational. Lynn was very comfortable just being himself. The Lynn, that one met and came to know was the real Lynn. He saw no need in pretending to be someone he was not. He was honest, amiable, extremely humorous (and loved to laugh), compassionate, and loving toward his family, friends, and people in general. He absolutely adored animals, especially dogs, and his beloved Golden Retrievers, who throughout the years were family too. Although he was not openly confrontational or judgmental, he had little patience for injustice, dishonesty, and fraudulent or cruel people. Rather, his efforts were directed toward changes that he hoped would eventually have positive effects for the good of all.
Lynn’s life was made complete when he met the love of his life, Nancy Oakley. Their love for each other was as deep and enduring as can be imagined. They had 20 years together, and Lynn and Nancy were truly – ONE. Theirs was a love most hope to find, but few do. We, their friends, pass along our love and sincere condolences to Nancy and her son, Patrick; daughter, Ariel (Tim); much loved grandchildren, Benjamin and Lily; his loving sister, Mollie Massey and his beloved nieces, Laura and Christine.
He was predeceased by his father and mother, Bill and Mildred Rochester.
Lynn’s loved ones and friends, likely and understandably, desired and expected to enjoy a good many additional years with him, but even more likely, no one would claim he wasted even one day.
Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Lynn with the family by clicking on the button labeled “Leave A Message, Share A Memory” below.
See Condolences
Anthony & Marie Kidd left a message on February 13, 2024:
Nancy,Patrick and other immediate family members;While our sincerest and heartfelt condolences in your loss have been expressed, we just want to let you guys know that we think of you often and lift you up that the one and only God (whether anyone wants to believe it or not) knows the depth of your loss and the void it created. And while this void of loneliness is real to you, it is also real to God. Yet as outer wounds heal, your inner hurts and wounds can, and, WILL heal if you are willing to allow Him to heal, strengthen, and comfort you in your life’s journey.We love you neighbor.
Stephanie (Sullivan) Chulkas left a message on February 6, 2024:
I was so sad to hear of the passing of “Uncle Roy”. I have know Lynn most of my life as he was close friends with my mom, Janis. He loved good food, especially sushi and we spent many nights laughing, talking, and solving the world’s problems. I met many good lifelong friends through Moon. His parties at the mountain house were legendary! Roaring fires, great music, plentiful food, seeing shooting stars on the roof and rides on the “Pope Mobile” I can still hear his wonderful laughter. He was generous to a fault and always did repairs for churches and musicians in need. He was talented musically. I adored his quirky lyrics…“Leaving the oven on Medium High!” Sending love and hugs to Nancy, his greatest love. May his memory be eternal!
Chris Benson left a message on November 22, 2023:
I met Lyn several years ago as many did, looking for a professional to repair musical equipment. As others must have said, he was a kind man, one who listened carefully to my problems about the musical gear, asked pertinent questions, and expertly completed the work. He had a lot of customers because of his obvious expertise as a technician but also as a technician who was a gifted and accomplished musician. I never heard him play but other serious musicians who are Lyn's age, just a little older than I, said he was a monster guitar player in a band called Moon Pie, if I am remembering correctly. I once asked him about his playing days and whether he still played, and he humbly lamented that his playing days were mostly over because of the loss of feeling in his fingers, which was related some health problem he did not go into. He smiled when he said, "I can still play some slide." He was always eager to know me better, and we discovered that he grew up in the sixties in the neighborhood in Clemson where I have lived for 30 years. He reminisced how "awesome the neighborhood was for skateboarding." It was true, we have three awesome hills long hills in Sunny Acres, but, as he pointed out, the downside was that you had to walk back up an awesome hill for the next thrill. Over a decade or more, Lyn fixed my Fender Blues Junior, a couple of monitors, a Mackie powered mixer, and the biggest challenge, a top of the line Casio keyboard. He was not afraid to take on a new challenge, and he always solved the problem. Of course, I will miss having him as my "go-to" expert for such repairs, but I will miss his kindness and his brotherly way of speaking with me. I send my sincere condolences to his wife, whom I met a few times, and his family, wherever they are. Lyn's wife was as kindhearted to me, a stranger, as Lyn was. God bless both of them.
David Rasberry left a message on March 4, 2023:
Lynn reconed PA speakers and repaired amps for me more than a few times over the decades, always accompanied by pleasant conversations about music and technology. He was generous with his time and knowledge and often didn't charge enough for his services knowing how his work impacted the ability of struggling musicians to earn a living. He kept ancient PA systems working long past their normal lifespan for schools and churches with no budgets to replace them. He was ever a kind and generous human being who conscientiously served people as much as he serviced hardware. A rare soul who will be sorely missed.
Sheena Freeman left a message on February 26, 2023:
Lynn was a good friend for several decades. He was a kind, gentle, generous soul. Wonderfully brilliant mind. He will be sorely missed. Love and thanks to Nancy for changing his life for the better. He was happier than we’ve ever seen him, and for that, I thank you!
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Gaye Sentell Reese left a message on February 25, 2023:
Rest In Peace my dear friend. I can only imagine the music you and Rusty Sentell are playing in Heaven!
Don Wiggins left a message on February 24, 2023:
Personally, and on behalf of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, I wish to thank Lynn for his friendship, teamwork and outstanding support of Fender products and local Musicians over many years now. His humble work in support of so many individuals has been greatly appreciated by all who have had the distinct pleasure of knowing him. Thank you, Lynn, as always!
Mike Parker left a message on February 19, 2023:
My condolences to Lynn's family. So glad I was able to spend time a week ago with Lynn reminiscing about the good times at his shop. He was always ready to make sure the area's musician's equipment was in good order with his great knowledge of electronics. He was such a true friend and asset to Parker Music years ago when he was getting started. Many memories of jamming at the "Church" downtown with Moon back in the day. The secret to eternity is the memories shared among us.
Rhonda Norris left a message on February 19, 2023:
I was so sad and sorry to hear of Lynn’s passing. What a generous, kind and talented man he was. He will always live in our hearts and I’m so thankful he was a part of my life even though I didn’t see him much after Byrds passing. My thoughts and prayers are with Nancy and his family ?
Leo Santana left a message on February 18, 2023:
I had the pleasure of meeting Lynn only a handful of times but the service and knowledge he provided on guitar amplifiers will last a lifetime. My condolences to the family and may he rest in peace.
Leon Jewett left a message on February 17, 2023:
Always enjoyed going to Lynn's shop He was one in a million. Dog lover, musician, electronic repairman and great conversationalist. Probably the best speaker repairmen in the country. My condolences to his family and friends. You will be missed. Rest in Peace.
John M. Hoyt left a message on February 17, 2023:
My sincere condolences to the family and friends... Lynn helped me and many other musicians and he was greatly appreciated and respected. Much love for his contribution to our Upstate Live Music SC scene.John M HoytHot As A Pepper Party BandUpstate Live Music SC fb group
Cherry Vintage Audio left a message on February 17, 2023:
On behalf of all of those affiliated with us here at Cherry Vintage Audio: Lynn was a "brother of the cloth" and a major contributor to keeping the vintage HiFi flame burning for so many people over the years. It wasn't just his technical knowledge, it was also his honesty and integrity that will be missed. His sudden departure reminds us all that life can be too short sometimes. Cheers old friend and thank you for your shared time.
Brian Stuart left a message on February 17, 2023:
I haven’t seen Lynn in many years but he used to repair some of my band equipment “back in the day”. He was always friendly and did great work at a reasonable price. My prayers go out to his family and friends at this difficult time. ??
Linda DeGear left a message on February 17, 2023:
?May his rest be this day in Paradise?
Tomy Hudson left a message on February 16, 2023:
I don't think there is a higher calling than making music for others to enjoy. Lynn did that, but he also enabled others to do it by being the number one music electronics repair guy in Greenville. He's rescued many a synth back in the days when there wasn't Google. He was also a great human being and friend. I am honored to have known him.
Karen Dillingham left a message on February 16, 2023:
I am so sad to hear about Lynn's passing. He was an incredible person. He will be missed by all who knew him. Rest in Peace
Wes left a message on February 15, 2023:
Lynn was wonderful person to know. He'd serviced my gear for the better part of 15 years, was always pleasant to work with and was an all-around great person. I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the news. This man was a staple to the music community and will be sorely missed.
Joel Wilkinson left a message on February 14, 2023:
We'll miss seeing you around, we were so saddened to learn that you'd passed. Thanks for your help when I needed you, and for all the fun memories across the years. ---Joel & Angie
Daniel Nickles. left a message on February 14, 2023:
My heart breaks. Lynn is truly one of a kind. His kindness to me cannot be truly expressed. We first met in 1991 and I cannot believe how fast time has gone by. Lynn, you will be missed but never forgotten. Until we meet again.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Mel H Odom left a message on February 14, 2023:
Our thoughts and prayers to the family. Lynn was a true pioneer in building and repairing amps. For almost 40 years he kept my equipment running no matter when I called.
Billie Parker left a message on February 14, 2023:
I am so at loss of words. I just talked to Lynn on Wed. I wish we had come on up to see ya’ll . He will be missed by all of us who he put all our music equipment back together. But i know you will miss him more. Talk with you later. Billie and Ronnie Sound Systems and More
Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
Show More
Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Anthony & Marie Kidd left a message on February 13, 2024:
Nancy,Patrick and other immediate family members;While our sincerest and heartfelt condolences in your loss have been expressed, we just want to let you guys know that we think of you often and lift you up that the one and only God (whether anyone wants to believe it or not) knows the depth of your loss and the void it created. And while this void of loneliness is real to you, it is also real to God. Yet as outer wounds heal, your inner hurts and wounds can, and, WILL heal if you are willing to allow Him to heal, strengthen, and comfort you in your life’s journey.We love you neighbor.
Stephanie (Sullivan) Chulkas left a message on February 6, 2024:
I was so sad to hear of the passing of “Uncle Roy”. I have know Lynn most of my life as he was close friends with my mom, Janis. He loved good food, especially sushi and we spent many nights laughing, talking, and solving the world’s problems. I met many good lifelong friends through Moon. His parties at the mountain house were legendary! Roaring fires, great music, plentiful food, seeing shooting stars on the roof and rides on the “Pope Mobile” I can still hear his wonderful laughter. He was generous to a fault and always did repairs for churches and musicians in need. He was talented musically. I adored his quirky lyrics…“Leaving the oven on Medium High!” Sending love and hugs to Nancy, his greatest love. May his memory be eternal!
Chris Benson left a message on November 22, 2023:
I met Lyn several years ago as many did, looking for a professional to repair musical equipment. As others must have said, he was a kind man, one who listened carefully to my problems about the musical gear, asked pertinent questions, and expertly completed the work. He had a lot of customers because of his obvious expertise as a technician but also as a technician who was a gifted and accomplished musician. I never heard him play but other serious musicians who are Lyn's age, just a little older than I, said he was a monster guitar player in a band called Moon Pie, if I am remembering correctly. I once asked him about his playing days and whether he still played, and he humbly lamented that his playing days were mostly over because of the loss of feeling in his fingers, which was related some health problem he did not go into. He smiled when he said, "I can still play some slide." He was always eager to know me better, and we discovered that he grew up in the sixties in the neighborhood in Clemson where I have lived for 30 years. He reminisced how "awesome the neighborhood was for skateboarding." It was true, we have three awesome hills long hills in Sunny Acres, but, as he pointed out, the downside was that you had to walk back up an awesome hill for the next thrill. Over a decade or more, Lyn fixed my Fender Blues Junior, a couple of monitors, a Mackie powered mixer, and the biggest challenge, a top of the line Casio keyboard. He was not afraid to take on a new challenge, and he always solved the problem. Of course, I will miss having him as my "go-to" expert for such repairs, but I will miss his kindness and his brotherly way of speaking with me. I send my sincere condolences to his wife, whom I met a few times, and his family, wherever they are. Lyn's wife was as kindhearted to me, a stranger, as Lyn was. God bless both of them.
David Rasberry left a message on March 4, 2023:
Lynn reconed PA speakers and repaired amps for me more than a few times over the decades, always accompanied by pleasant conversations about music and technology. He was generous with his time and knowledge and often didn't charge enough for his services knowing how his work impacted the ability of struggling musicians to earn a living. He kept ancient PA systems working long past their normal lifespan for schools and churches with no budgets to replace them. He was ever a kind and generous human being who conscientiously served people as much as he serviced hardware. A rare soul who will be sorely missed.
Sheena Freeman left a message on February 26, 2023:
Lynn was a good friend for several decades. He was a kind, gentle, generous soul. Wonderfully brilliant mind. He will be sorely missed. Love and thanks to Nancy for changing his life for the better. He was happier than we’ve ever seen him, and for that, I thank you!
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Gaye Sentell Reese left a message on February 25, 2023:
Rest In Peace my dear friend. I can only imagine the music you and Rusty Sentell are playing in Heaven!
Don Wiggins left a message on February 24, 2023:
Personally, and on behalf of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, I wish to thank Lynn for his friendship, teamwork and outstanding support of Fender products and local Musicians over many years now. His humble work in support of so many individuals has been greatly appreciated by all who have had the distinct pleasure of knowing him. Thank you, Lynn, as always!
Mike Parker left a message on February 19, 2023:
My condolences to Lynn's family. So glad I was able to spend time a week ago with Lynn reminiscing about the good times at his shop. He was always ready to make sure the area's musician's equipment was in good order with his great knowledge of electronics. He was such a true friend and asset to Parker Music years ago when he was getting started. Many memories of jamming at the "Church" downtown with Moon back in the day. The secret to eternity is the memories shared among us.
Rhonda Norris left a message on February 19, 2023:
I was so sad and sorry to hear of Lynn’s passing. What a generous, kind and talented man he was. He will always live in our hearts and I’m so thankful he was a part of my life even though I didn’t see him much after Byrds passing. My thoughts and prayers are with Nancy and his family ?
Leo Santana left a message on February 18, 2023:
I had the pleasure of meeting Lynn only a handful of times but the service and knowledge he provided on guitar amplifiers will last a lifetime. My condolences to the family and may he rest in peace.
Leon Jewett left a message on February 17, 2023:
Always enjoyed going to Lynn's shop He was one in a million. Dog lover, musician, electronic repairman and great conversationalist. Probably the best speaker repairmen in the country. My condolences to his family and friends. You will be missed. Rest in Peace.
John M. Hoyt left a message on February 17, 2023:
My sincere condolences to the family and friends... Lynn helped me and many other musicians and he was greatly appreciated and respected. Much love for his contribution to our Upstate Live Music SC scene.John M HoytHot As A Pepper Party BandUpstate Live Music SC fb group
Cherry Vintage Audio left a message on February 17, 2023:
On behalf of all of those affiliated with us here at Cherry Vintage Audio: Lynn was a "brother of the cloth" and a major contributor to keeping the vintage HiFi flame burning for so many people over the years. It wasn't just his technical knowledge, it was also his honesty and integrity that will be missed. His sudden departure reminds us all that life can be too short sometimes. Cheers old friend and thank you for your shared time.
Brian Stuart left a message on February 17, 2023:
I haven’t seen Lynn in many years but he used to repair some of my band equipment “back in the day”. He was always friendly and did great work at a reasonable price. My prayers go out to his family and friends at this difficult time. ??
Linda DeGear left a message on February 17, 2023:
?May his rest be this day in Paradise?
Tomy Hudson left a message on February 16, 2023:
I don't think there is a higher calling than making music for others to enjoy. Lynn did that, but he also enabled others to do it by being the number one music electronics repair guy in Greenville. He's rescued many a synth back in the days when there wasn't Google. He was also a great human being and friend. I am honored to have known him.
Karen Dillingham left a message on February 16, 2023:
I am so sad to hear about Lynn's passing. He was an incredible person. He will be missed by all who knew him. Rest in Peace
Wes left a message on February 15, 2023:
Lynn was wonderful person to know. He'd serviced my gear for the better part of 15 years, was always pleasant to work with and was an all-around great person. I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the news. This man was a staple to the music community and will be sorely missed.
Joel Wilkinson left a message on February 14, 2023:
We'll miss seeing you around, we were so saddened to learn that you'd passed. Thanks for your help when I needed you, and for all the fun memories across the years. ---Joel & Angie
Daniel Nickles. left a message on February 14, 2023:
My heart breaks. Lynn is truly one of a kind. His kindness to me cannot be truly expressed. We first met in 1991 and I cannot believe how fast time has gone by. Lynn, you will be missed but never forgotten. Until we meet again.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Mel H Odom left a message on February 14, 2023:
Our thoughts and prayers to the family. Lynn was a true pioneer in building and repairing amps. For almost 40 years he kept my equipment running no matter when I called.
Billie Parker left a message on February 14, 2023:
I am so at loss of words. I just talked to Lynn on Wed. I wish we had come on up to see ya’ll . He will be missed by all of us who he put all our music equipment back together. But i know you will miss him more. Talk with you later. Billie and Ronnie Sound Systems and More
Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Thank you for leaving a condolence.
Your comment has been submitted for moderation.
