James Micheal "Jim" Roland

James Micheal Roland, 78, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and man of faith, entered into eternal rest with his Lord and Savior, unexpectedly, at his home on Hyatt Street Sunday August 31, 2025. James was born May 6, 1947 in Swain County to the late Kelly and Marie Roland.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Clara Queen Roland, a son Michael Dale Roland, a brother Willie Roland, a grandson Jamie Roland Jr., a sister Norene Sutton, a sister Sandy Roland, a nephew Chris Mintz, a niece Christy Regan, a niece Danielle Wells, a grandson, and a brother-in-law Tommy Singleton.

He is survived by his two daughters, Beverly Roland and Teresa Haskett (James), a son Jamie Roland (Tracie), from his former wife Evelyn, his stepdaughter Sue Ellen Hopper, grandson Caleb Hensley, and stepdaughters Nancy Backman and Kathy Stewart, a stepson Ronnie Goodson. One brother Neal Roland (Linda), two sisters Charlene Mull (Carl) and Pam Singleton, six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Jim and Clara shared many wonderful moments driving their 18-wheeler across the country. Together, they enjoyed the open road, their journeys always marked by laughter, faith, and companionship. They had a sign shaped like a transfer truck that read "Keep on Truckin' Clara and Jim", a reminder of their adventures and devotion.

Family was at the center of Jame's life. He and Clara loved going to church with their family where his brother Neal preached and his sisters, mom and children would attend. He especially loved the big family get togethers for the holidays. He just loved being with family. James had a deep love of music-he taught his grandson Caleb his very first guitar chord at just four years old, often practicing together while Clara took her turn behind the wheel of the truck. Fishing trips to the ponds in Cherokee were also among his greatest joys, where peace, patience, and good company came together.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at Smoky Mountain Chapel with his brother Neil Roland, George Dewitt and Roger Roland officiating. The family will receive friends from 10 AM to 12 PM prior to the service. Burial will follow at Green Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jamie Roland, Caleb Hensley, James Haskett, Austin Green, Mike Denton, and Mikey Denton.

Smoky Mountain Cremations and Funeral Service of Maggie Valley is caring for the family and the online register is available at www.smokymountaincremations.com.