At Blue Ridge Apothecary, we’re dedicated to providing personalized care through custom-compounded medications. Our mission has always been to deliver solutions that meet the unique needs of each patient, supported by expertise, integrity, and a commitment to quality.
Our History & Present
The journey to creating Blue Ridge Apothecary began in the late 1990’s when Graham Stephens decided it was time for a change. After leaving a clinical coordinator position in a regional hospital in North Carolina, Graham knew he wanted to step away from traditional pharmacy. Encouraged by his wife, and inspired by conversations with industry experts and business associates, he realized compounding offered the opportunity to make a real difference. With a vision of creating a pharmacy focused on customized patient care—and free from the constraints of insurance—Blue Ridge Apothecary was born.
The early years came with unexpected challenges . The competitive nature of retail pharmacy in the Roanoke area, combined with contention from local competitors, made building the business difficult. But we remained steadfast, relying on faith, determination, and the trust of his patients. Over time, patients recognized the difference that competent, personalized care made, often returning after trying alternatives elsewhere.
After eight years the difficult decision to sell the pharmacy to a national chain was made, and Blue Ridge Apothecary became the Kroger Compounding Center. Our staff continued to provide the best service possible; however, the corporate approach didn’t align with the flexibility and innovation required for compounding. When Kroger decided to close its compounding division, we saw an opportunity to return to our original business model. With the full support of the company, Graham repurchased the pharmacy and began rebuilding the practice he had started.
Today, Blue Ridge Apothecary is thriving. As the Roanoke Valley’s sole compounding-only pharmacy, we’ve built strong relationships with healthcare providers who trust us to deliver exceptional care for their patients; one of our greatest sources of pride is the number of prescribers who have entrusted the care of their families to our team. We focus on character and competence in everything we do, ensuring that every medication we prepare is as effective as it is safe.
For us, it’s about more than just filling prescriptions—it’s about serving our community with compassion and expertise. Whether you’re looking for a customized solution or a pharmacy that genuinely cares, Blue Ridge Apothecary is here to help.
Our Team
Graham Stephens, Pharm.D., R.Ph.
Owner & Compounding Pharmacist-in-Charge
Graham Stephens, Pharm.D., R.Ph., is the owner of Blue Ridge Apothecary. He was born in Michigan while his father was serving in the United States Air Force. After completing his tour of duty, his father settled the family in Botetourt County where Graham spent his formative years. While growing up, Graham was active in the community. He is proudest of his four years of service as a volunteer fireman at Engine Company 200 in Troutville.
Graham graduated with a BS in Pharmacy from the Medical College of Virginia, State School of Pharmacy; obtained his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Mercer University; and completed a residency at Providence Hospital in Southfield, Michigan. He has worked at a variety of retail, hospital and clinical positions and has made multiple presentations to a wide range of audiences. The position that he most enjoyed was teaching Pharmacology to Physician Assistant students at the Jefferson College of Health Sciences.
Graham’s extensive work background has served him well. All of these experiences culminated in his decision to open Blue Ridge Apothecary in the late 90’s. Graham is routinely presented with unusual patient problems. He believes that the creativity associated with compounding and his work experiences have shaped him in a way that allows him to best serve these patients.
When he’s not working, Graham enjoys spending time with his family and friends in church, eating his wife’s cooking, and playing chess.
Licenses/Certifications
Licensed Pharmacist in Virginia, North Carolina, and West Virginia
Founded Blue Ridge Apothecary
Melissa Walls, Pharm.D., R.Ph
Melissa was born and raised in Florida and relocated to Roanoke in 2007. She joined Blue Ridge Apothecary in 2022 and has become an invaluable part of the team, bringing extensive experience in sterile compounding and patient-focused care.
With over 12 years of experience working in sterile IV compounding at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, Melissa brings a strong commitment to precision and safety. Her technical expertise ensures every compounded medication meets the highest quality standards.
When she’s not in the lab, Melissa enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring the Roanoke area, and connecting with her family and friends.
Licenses/Certifications
Licensed Pharmacist in Virginia and Florida
Joined Blue Ridge Apothecary
Mary Randolph, CPhT
Mary grew up in Roanoke, where she has lived most of her life. She graduated from Roanoke Valley Christian School and Grace College and has built strong connections within the community. Mary comes to us with a wide range of work experience and fills unique administrative as well as compounding functions.
Mary enjoys spending her free time with family and friends, crocheting, playing games, and binge-watching her favorite shows. As her family prepares for the changes of an empty nest, Mary remains committed to providing compassionate care to every patient.
Licenses/Certifications
Certified Pharmacy Technician
Joined Blue Ridge Apothecary
Lydia Parrish, CPhT
Lydia was born in Christiansburg, VA, and has lived in Roanoke for many years. She joined Blue Ridge Apothecary while completing her pharmacy technician training and plays a key role in ensuring compounded medications are prepared with accuracy and care.
Her attention to detail and dedication to patient needs make her an integral part of the pharmacy’s operations. Lydia is passionate about helping patients receive customized solutions to meet their unique healthcare needs.
Outside of work, Lydia enjoys reading, caring for her plants, and hosting game nights with family and friends.
Licenses/Certifications
Certified Pharmacy Technician
Joined Blue Ridge Apothecary
Lisa Champe, CPhT
Lisa is a Bedford County native who began her pharmacy career with CVS. After completing her training and passing her licensing exams, she worked at a home infusion pharmacy for three years before joining Blue Ridge Apothecary.
Lisa’s expertise in preparing compounded medications and her commitment to quality and patient care help ensure every prescription is tailored to individual needs.
In her free time, Lisa enjoys attending metal concerts, cooking, and snuggling her cats.
Licenses/Certifications
Certified Pharmacy Technician
Joined Blue Ridge Apothecary
Ray Perez, Special Projects Coordinator
Ray is a Roanoke native, having lived here most of his life. He has earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia and is currently enrolled in the Physical Therapy Assistant program at Virginia Western Community College.
Outside of the classroom, he enjoys philosophy, paracord crafts, and serving as a volunteer with Virginia Search and Rescue groups.
Joined Blue Ridge Apothecary
Lilli Farnsworth, Front End
Lilli is a local high school student. She was born in Lynchburg and has lived in Virginia all her life. She loves to read, especially biographies and fantasy novels. She is especially fond of The Lord of the Rings. She has served as our Customer Service Representative since September and is currently pursuing her education to become a Librarian.