James V. "Jim" Roach

James V. "Jim" Roach obituary

James V. "Jim" Roach

James Roach Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Hamlin & Hilbish Funeral Directors on Sep. 23, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

James V. "Jim" Roach, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at the age of 84. Born in Huntington, West Virginia, Jim carried the warmth and grit of his hometown with him throughout his life. In the early 1960s, he moved to Orlando, Florida, where he met the love of his life, Sandra. Their bond blossomed into a beautiful marriage that spanned 54 years, filled with laughter, devotion, and shared adventures. Jim's journey took him from Orlando to Lake County and ultimately to Leesburg, FL, where he became a cherished member of the Welcome Home Christian Church. His faith was a quiet but steady compass in his life. A man of many passions, Jim found joy in the simple pleasures-especially bass fishing. He was a proud member of the United Bass Fisherman's Association of Orlando and could often be found swapping stories and sipping coffee with friends at the 441 Diner's breakfast club. In his younger years, he embraced the thrill of stock car racing at Bithlo, a testament to his spirited nature. Professionally, Jim was a skilled auto mechanic who later transitioned into auto parts sales, earning the respect of colleagues and customers alike for his honesty and expertise. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sandra; sons, James Thomas "Jimmy" (Larenda) Roach of Clermont, Scott Allen Roach of Leesburg, and William "Billy" (Wei) Roach of Guam; daughter, Karen (Robert) Partain of Chiefland, Florida; brother, Raymond (Nell) Roach of Orlando; grandchildren, Meghan Derifield, James Edward Roach, Nathan Allan Partain, Shane Allan (Tiffany) Partain, and Madison Kendahl (Ted) Marks; and great-grandchildren, Torbin, Addistyn, Emma, Skylar, Maverick, Zoeiegh, and Leo. Jim's legacy lives on in the lives he touched-with his humor, his heart, and his unwavering love for family and friends. A viewing will be held on Friday, September 26 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 noon, followed by a funeral ceremony at 12:00 noon at the Hamlin & Hilbish Eustis chapel. Burial will take place at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Gotha, FL. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared on the tribute wall. Jim will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to ripple through the waters he fished, the roads he raced, and the hearts of those who knew him.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor James Roach's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign James Roach's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?