James "Shorty" Roland Jr.

James Roland, Jr. was born December 13, 1935, in Anthony, Florida to the late James Roland, Sr. and Aldora Mundy Roland. He grew up in Polk County, Florida, attended J.R.E. Lee School in Mulbury, and graduated Salutatorian from Union Academy High School in Bartow in 1954.

He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1954-1959 during which time he married Ruby Roland. Upon completing his term of service , he entered Florida A&M University and in 1963 received his Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. While attending FAMU he became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc,. Alpha XI Chapter.

After graduation, he relocated to Riviera Beach, FL where he was employed by the Palm Beach County School Board as a Mathematics instructor at John F. Kennedy High School (1963-1972). His dedication to growth and learning continued as he pursued higher education at Florida Atlantic University and received a Master of Education degree in Administration and Supervision in 1974.

He continued his life of service to students in the Palm Beach County School District in various administrative roles (including Work Experience Coordinator and Assistant Principal) until his retirement in 1995. Affectionately known as “Shorty” he lived a full and vibrant life. He was an avid fisherman, landscaper, and cook.

He passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025. James was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert “Frog” Rose.

He leaves to cherish his memories Ruby Roland and their three adult children: Eric Roland, Marseia Roland, and Marcus Roland. Five grandchildren: Nicole Roland, Monique Smith, Clayton Roland, Caitlyn Martindale (Trevor) and Conner Roland. Three great-grandchildren: Zariah, Zahara, and Zora, God daughter, Elaina Smith-Campbell, niece Belinda Roland, and brother, Jimmy Ray Roland (Mary Ann)

Outstanding caregivers: John and Margaret Foster; Flo Williams and Jalicia Edwards.

A visitation will be held at Royal Palm Funeral Home, located at 5601 Greenwood Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33407, on December 27, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at the same venue, starting at 11:00 am. The Committal Service is scheduled for 1:00 pm at Royal Palm Memorial Gardens, also located at 5601 Greenwood Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33407.