TikTok sensation Joe Mack Roy, known as “Pop Watch,” passes away at 90, leaving millions of fans mourning the loss of their virtual grandfather.
At a Glance
- Joe Mack Roy, the beloved “Pop Watch” TikTok star, died at 90 years old
- Roy gained fame through his grandson’s social media posts, amassing over 6 million followers
- His videos, known for their humor and wisdom, have been viewed nearly 7 billion times
- Roy passed away peacefully with family by his side after health complications
A Digital Legacy Remembered
Joe Mack Roy, the 90-year-old TikTok personality known affectionately as “Pop” from “Pop Watch,” has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and wisdom that touched millions. Roy’s grandson, Jason, began sharing clips of their lives seven years ago, unknowingly creating a phenomenon that would captivate audiences worldwide.
Roy’s sudden rise to fame began in 2017 when Jason created a Facebook page showcasing his grandfather’s quirky sayings, quick wit, and love for Dr. Pepper. The page’s popularity exploded, eventually leading to a TikTok account that garnered 1.5 million followers. Roy’s charm and no-nonsense humor resonated with people across generations, creating a virtual space where followers felt like part of his extended family.
Texas grandfather Joe Mack Roy, better known on TikTok as "Pop" from "Pop Watch," has died
https://t.co/4ONILgeOCy— KVUE News (@KVUE) August 22, 2024
A Life Well-Lived
Roy’s impact on his audience was profound, with many finding comfort and relatability in his content. His videos, which have been viewed nearly 7 billion times, often featured humorous rants and ramblings that endeared him to viewers. Roy’s family realized the extent of his celebrity status during his granddaughter Reagan Roy’s wedding, where guests clamored to take pictures with the internet sensation.
“All these people at my wedding were taking pictures with him and dancing with him,” Reagan Roy said. “It just blows up on social media. … I’m just going, ‘This has been the same person that I have known my entire life.’ ”
Interestingly, Roy himself remained unaware of his widespread fame, continuing to live his life as he always had, creating cherished memories with his family and unknowingly entertaining millions.
A Peaceful Farewell
Jason announced Roy’s passing on social media, stating that his grandfather died “peacefully… last night with our family by his side.” The news came after a brief health struggle, with Roy experiencing complications from a mass in his throat. His wife of 70 years, Mary, remained by his side during his transfer to hospice care.
“I just think to myself, how lucky am I to have had someone that was so hard to say ‘goodbye’ to?” Jason reflected, expressing gratitude for the 40 years he spent with his grandfather.
As news of Roy’s passing spread, fans from around the world shared their condolences and memories of the man who had become a virtual grandfather to so many. His impact on social media was significant, with his fanbase growing to over 6 million people globally.
A Lasting Memory
While Roy may have passed on, his memory and influence will continue to live on through the vast archive of videos he left behind. Reagan Roy shared that there are many unpublished videos of “Pop” that will continue to be shared, ensuring that his legacy endures.
“Jason has an arsenal of videos that have never been published,” Reagan Roy said.
As fans mourn the loss of their beloved “Pop Watch,” they can take comfort in the knowledge that his humor, wisdom, and down-to-earth charm will continue to bring joy and laughter for years to come. Joe Mack Roy’s life serves as a testament to the power of authenticity and the ability of one person to touch millions of lives, even in the twilight of their years.
