James P Roche

Nov 27, 1940 — Apr 16, 2026

James Roche, 85, of Manahawkin, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on April 16, entering his eternal home in heaven. A man defined by his unwavering faith, dedication to his community, and love for his family, James lived a life marked by service, especially after his life was transformed by the amazing grace and power of Jesus Christ working in his life.

Jim was an active member of Bayside Chapel in Barnegat, NJ. In earlier years, Jim was instrumental in the establishment and growth of the King of Kings Community Church in Manahawkin.

Born on November 21, 1940, to James and Agnes Roche, James was raised in the Bronx, New York. He attended Rice High School in Manhattan, where he was known for his athletic spirit on the basketball court and his voice in the Glee Club.

In 1973, James moved to Barnegat, where he became a staple of the community. He was the owner and operator of J & E Transport Co. and dedicated years to local transportation, working for Trolley Tours and providing essential transport services for seniors in Ocean County.

His passion for youth and sports led him to help start and coach the Barnegat Little League. He also shared his leadership as a co-moderator for the CYO program and as a basketball coach at St. Mary’s in Barnegat. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and The Holy Name Society earlier in his life. .

The most pivotal moment in James’s life occurred in April 1980, when he and his beloved wife, Eyleen, became "Born Again" Christians. From that moment on, James dedicated his life to the Gospel. His ministry work was extensive, including:

21 years of hospital chaplain ministry at the Southern Ocean Medical Center.

Minister of Visitation at King of Kings Community Church from 1996 to 2005.

Service in the Ocean County Prison Ministry.

Dedicated outreach in Home and Nursing Ministries.

James was predeceased by his cherished wife, Eyleen, who entered heaven in 2005 after 40 years of marriage. He was also predeceased by his stepson, Thomas, who was killed in 1984 while serving in the U.S. Army in Germany.

He is survived by:

His three sons: James, Keith, and Kevin.

His stepson: Mark.

His grandson: Jack Roche.

James will be remembered for his commitment to God’s "sovereign plan." His life story and testimonies remain a gift to those who knew him, reflecting his mission to reach others with the Gospel.

Jim recently wrote: "By God’s Sovereign plan, He gave my me and my wife Eyleen, the gift and passion to reach people with the Gospel."

Jim has published a number of books detailing the numbers of lives touched by his ministry.

Services will be held at Thos. L. Shinn Funeral Home in Manahawkin on Thursday, April 23, 2026.

Viewing: 9-11 AM

Memorial Service at the Funeral Home: 11 AM

Burial at the Barnegat Cemetery after the service.

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Condolences may be sent to our web site at www.shinnfuneralhome.com