James S. Rose

Obituary For James S. Rose

James Sewell Rose, born June 5, 1940, in Hazel Green, Kentucky, was sent to his eternal home on May 1, 2025, in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Jim was an energetic & fun spirit in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was one marked by love, laughter, compassion & competition. Jim is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Gilmore Rose, his treasured daughter Alice & cherished grandsons, Jimmy & Fletcher. He also leaves behind his nephew James Flanigan & niece Janice Hakes. He also had aunts, uncles & cousins who shared in his joyful spirit. He was predeceased by his beloved parents James Buchanan Rose & Lula Opaleigh Rose, and his loving sister, Caroline Flanigan. Jim's family was extended by Joyce's family, the Savastanos & Gargiulos, who also held a special place in his heart.

Jim graduated from West Chester High School, then attended Ohio University where he played basketball & majored in Science Education. He served 3 years in the Navy, then earned a Master's Degree at Xavier University. Jim's first job was at Richmond Heights High School in Ohio. Thereafter, he spent many years working at Garfield Heights High School in roles of counselor, assistant principal & principal. He retired as Personnel Director for the Garfield Heights School System. Jim & Joyce moved to Bloomington, Indiana in 1992 where Jim became the Personnel Director of the Monroe County Community School System. His career ended as it began, as a school guidance counselor. Jim filled his life with a dedication to children in & out of the classroom. He spent time pursuing his love of sports, especially basketball. He coached many teams within his community as well as the schools he worked at. Jim's teams had winning records & he was honored several times as Coach of the Year.

In retirement, Jim enjoyed traveling the world with Joyce & watching his grandsons play lacrosse & swim. He had cultivated long lasting friendships over the years and loved happy hours, playing cards, golf or tennis with friends. Known for being giving of his time & talents, he loved to be helpful to others & would say "Just ask Jim" if you needed anything at all.

Jim's passing has left a void in the hearts of his family & friends, please remember him with fondness & the profound positive impact he had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

To honor Jim's memory, please consider making a donation to a local animal shelter.

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