Jim Roach was a selfless community volunteer

When The Brunswick Beacon updated its retirement section “Golden Sands” last year, Jim Roach was one of the first people to comment about it.

As a matter of fact, he was so excited he showed up at the office after it published with a list of stories in hand. As a representative of the N.C. Senior Tarheel Legislature, Roach, a retiree, was enthusiastic about sharing more ideas for the section. His list was so long, he asked us if we could move from our annual production cycle and produce it more frequently, quarterly would be a good start, he encouraged.

That moment was merely a brief insight into Roach and his enthusiasm for all things Brunswick County. Roach, a former Shallotte alderman, was active in countless volunteer activities throughout the community. He didn’t just show up for things, he brought his heart and all of his energy along with him.

Roach died last week at age 75, doing one of the many things he loved to do—playing senior softball.

Roach’s death is a loss to this community. Whether he was helping young people with The First Tee or Special Olympics or helping keep history alive with the Sunnyside School Historical Society, Roach was always one to put others—and this community—before himself.

Brunswick County is a better place because he cared and for those of us who had a chance to get to know his energy, even for a short while, we know how much he will be missed. Our condolences to all who knew and loved him.