Royce "Boots" King (88) of Madera passed away on June 19th, 2016. Royce Elaine was born on May 23rd, 1928 in Salinas, CA to parents Roy and Auris Root. As a very young girl she earned the nickname 'Boots' because of the white cowboy boots she wore. The name stuck with her throughout her life.

Royce received her BA from San Jose State University in 1950. She excelled in journalism and was working for a publicity firm when she met Earl King. She was on an assignment to interview a local rodeo participant, who turned out to be her future husband. She and Earl were married on March 20th, 1952. Together they had 4 children; Jodie, Amy, Will & Connie. Most of their married life was spent in Madera County.

In 1980, Royce went to work for Madera County's Department of Corrections as an administrative assistant. She enjoyed the work very much and co-workers became like family to her. She retired after 18 years, but loved staying in touch with many of her former colleagues by attending their frequent "Retiree's Luncheon." These luncheons were definitely a highpoint in her later years.

Royce was a longtime supporter of Madera County SPCA and many special dogs found a home with the Kings.

In recent years, she had taken on a personal fight against the proposed High-speed rail.

Royce is survived by her husband Earl, children; Jodie King (Tom Bowman) of Ahwahnee, CA, Amy King of Cody, WY, Will King of Madera, & Connie (Greg) Demple, of Cody, WY; granddaughters Julia & Natalie Demple, Cody, WY and sister Judith (Michel) Chertier of Wilmington, NC.

Per her request cremation has taken place and no formal services will be held. However, friends are invited to an informal remembrance on June 27h between 2:00pm – 4:00pm at DiCicco's Restaurant in Madera.