Chester James "Jim" Rose passed away on Jan. 27, 2026, surrounded by his wife and children. Jim was born on Oct. 16, 1941, in Altoona, PA to Chester David Rose and Elma Elizabeth Banks. He graduated from Altoona High School in 1959 and Catawba College in 1963; he served in the US Marine Corps as a 1st Lieutenant from 1963 to 1966. Jim married Julia Faye Kerr on July 18, 1964, and after starting their family moved to Valrico, FL in 1971. He worked for Mack Truck Sales/Nextran Truck Center as a salesperson for 42 years and was an avid reader of history; he enjoyed classical music and playing the piano. Jim leaves a legacy of love and laughter and is survived by his wife, Faye; brothers Dave Rose (Cathy) and Norm Hatfield (Charlotte); his six children, Jennifer Rose, Tom Rose, Susan Lombard (Gary), Julie Hendrix (Gene), Jean Moore (Mike) and Kim Wrona (Rick). Jim is remembered fondly as "Pappy" by 14 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held at 11 am on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, at Bethany Baptist Church, 3409 N Cork Road in Plant City, FL, with visitation from 10 am to 11 am. In lieu of flowers the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.
