James M. "Jim Bo" DesRochers

James (JimBo) Mowbray DesRochers went to be with his Heavenly Father and was reunited with loved ones on May 12, 2014, at the age of 66. JimBo was born in Tuscaloosa, Ala., on June 27, 1947, but spent most of his life in Fort Walton Beach, Fla.
JimBo attended the University of Alabama, where he was a member of Delta Kappa Epsilon Fraternity.
He was preceded in death by his father, Mowbray McGowin DesRochers; mother, Mary Isabelle DesRochers; sister, Dianne Schambeau; and brother, John McGowin DesRochers. He is survived by his sister, Carol Tanner, of Tuscaloosa, Ala.; four nieces, Michele Manasco, Kathy Cline, Nicole Guy and Brooke Etheridge; two nephews, Kevin Schambeau and Brian DesRochers; godchild, Searcy Haring Kelly; special friend, Wendy Sorrells; and many close relatives and dear friends.
JimBo served as a realtor in the Emerald coast area for over 38 years, primarily for REI (Real Estate International), where he was blessed to work with a host of special coworkers and clients. He was twice awarded Top Salesman of the year.
JimBo could be described as the Crimson Tide's biggest fan. He was known for hosting the most fun loving tailgate. Being with ones he loved at a 'Bama game or on the beach was heaven on earth to him…or as he would say, ""It doesn't get any better than this."" He was a one-of-a-kind brother to Carol, Dianne and Johnny, and a beloved uncle to his nieces, nephews, and many relatives. He always had a kind word to offer, listened with his whole being, and was known for his gentle spirit. JimBo was a true southern gentleman, always putting everyone's needs before his own, even in his final days.
A memorial scholarship was recently named in his honor. Each year, one local high school student who exemplifies the essence and spirit of JimBo DesRochers, will be presented with a $1000 college scholarship. These qualities truly represent JimBo: friendship, sincerity, honesty, integrity and selflessness. As someone once said, ""We are all better people because we have known JimBo.""
The family would like to thank HealthSouth Rehabilitation of Panama City, Fort Walton Beach Rehabilitation Center, and Emerald Coast Hospice for the wonderful care he received. We would like to send an extra acknowledgement to Nurse Tyra, who was truly his guardian angel.
Chip Haring, Jim Haring, Kevin Schambeau, Mark Cline, Tres Manasco, Tanner Cline, Hunter Cline and Blake Schambeau will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include Brian DesRochers, Don Schambeau, Bill Deal, Buddy Runnels, Claire Pratt, Jeff McDonald, Ray Costello, Dr. Phil Andre, and too many others to even list.
Visitation will be held on Friday, May 16, 2014, from 4 to 7 p.m., at McLaughlin Mortuary, 17 Chestnut Ave. SE, Fort Walton Beach, Fla. A casual, beachside ""Celebration of Life"" service will take place on Saturday, May 17, 2014, 10 a.m., at The Venue at Crystal Beach, 2716 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541, under the direction of the Rev. Charles Walker. A committal service will follow at Beal Memorial Cemetery, 316 Beal Pkwy NW, Fort Walton Beach, Fla.
Memorial Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Williams Syndrome Association, Nick's Kids, or the charity of one's choice.
Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at www.McLaughlinMortuary.com.