James P. Roche

James P. Roche, of Weymouth, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2026, at the age of 90. He was born in Boston on February 18, 1936, to the late James and Kathleen (Breen) Roche.

James was a graduate of Sacred Heart High School in Weymouth. Following high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1954 to 1957. He later earned his degree from Bentley College and continued his education by taking classes at Harvard University. He was a life long reader and instilled this love in his children and grandchildren.

After leaving the military, James married the love of his life, Helen (Gilmore) Roche. Together, they began their family in Quincy, spent time in Raynham, and ultimately settled in North Weymouth in 1969. There they made their home and raised their family.

James was deeply committed to helping others and was a tremendous part of the Alcoholics Anonymous community. Over the years, he sponsored hundreds of people and dedicated much of his time to supporting those in recovery. He also ran halfway houses in Quincy and Plymouth, providing guidance, encouragement, and a helping hand to countless people working to rebuild their lives. His generosity, loyalty, and willingness to help others left a lasting impact on many lives.

James was proud, loyal, and quick-witted, with a wonderful sense of humor. He loved running, golfing, competing in triathlons and remained active throughout his life. He even traveled the country competing as a Senior Olympian. He took great pride in his accomplishments, but even more so in his family and the people he was able to help.

James was the devoted father of Judi Fowler (her predeceased husband, Michael); Sean Roche and his wife, Michelle; Marie O'Leary and her husband, James; James Roche and his partner, Catalina Martinez; and Kevin Roche and his wife, Sandi. He was the proud grandfather of Joshua, Sara, Kristina, Ian, Connor, Kevin, Brendan, and Haley, and great-grandfather of Sloane. He is also survived by his sister, Margaret Roche. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Helen; his parents; and his brother, George Roche, and George's wife, Pat. He is also survived by his many nieces & nephews with whom he shared countless cherished memories.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the visitation for James on Friday, October 23, 2026, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at C. C. Shepherd Funeral Home, 134 Pleasant Street (Columbian Square), South Weymouth, MA 02190. A Funeral Mass will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Saint Jerome Parish, 632 Bridge Street, North Weymouth, MA 02191.

Donations may be made in James' memory to Barbara and Pat Roche Hospice Home in Hingham https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E12646&id=40 and to the Town of Weymouth Veterans. To donate specifically to the Weymouth Veterans, a check can be made out to the Town of Weymouth with Veterans Donation account on the memo line. The address to mail it is Weymouth Veterans Services 182 Green St. Weymouth, MA 02191.