James V. "Jim" Roach's Obituary
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.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?