Archibald Wilson Kilbourne Roach, 87, of Denton, died Wednesday July 30, 2008 at Denton Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

Archie was born on September 15, 1920 in Omaha, Nebraska to Thomas and Alice Davidson Roach. He married Leta U. Allis in 1942. He was a professor emeritus of biology, UNT where he taught botany from 1950 to 1978. He received several research grants from the National Institutes of Health and was named an outstanding professor in 1963 and an honor professor in 1973.

After retirement, Archie wrote a botany book, traveled, pitched horseshoes and painted.

In World War II he was a B-24 pilot in the 450th Heavy Bombardment Group and 722nd Squadron. He flew 50 missions in the 15th AAF and was awarded the Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters and the Distinguished Flying Cross.

He earned a BA and MA in botany from the University of Colorado and a Ph.D. in botany from Oregon State University.

His wife Leta and their children, Dr. Alice J. Roach and Dr. John W. Roach survive him.

A graveside service will be held at 8:00 AM Saturday August 2, 2008 at Roselawn Memorial Park.

Mulkey-Mason, Jack Schmitz and Son Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.