LCDR James W. Rose- Retired

Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) James “Jim” Wesley Rose, 74, died July 29, 2023, at Memory Care at Discovery Village at Deerwood, FL. (He had Parkinson’s and very advanced dementia). He was born July 29, 1949, in Liberal, Kansas to Earl J. Rose Jr. and Marjory (McCollom) Rose.

James graduated from Hutchinson High School, Hutchinson, KS and received his Bachelor of Accounting from Wichita State University, Wichita, KS. On March 8, 1980, he married Kathryn Connelly Frizzell in Hutchinson, KS.

James retired from the United States Navy after an honorable 20-year career. Achieving the rank of LCDR, Lieutenant Commander, he served as a TACCO (Tactical Coordinator) on the P-3 aircraft, specializing in Anti-submarine warfare. He traveled extensively worldwide. In 1975, James, along with his unit, played a pivotal role in locating the Mayaguez hostages on the island of Koh Tang after the Khmer Rouge seized the US merchant vessel SS Mayaguez. This event marked a significant moment near the end of the Vietnam War.

Subsequently, James served as a Navigator on the C-130 Hercules aircraft with the Antarctic Development Squadron SIX (VXE-6) Operation Deep Freeze. He flew missions to the South Pole, supporting the National Science Foundation and conducting aviation operations under the most challenging weather conditions known to humanity.

James worked at the United States Pentagon: Headquarters of the US Department of Defense for two separate deployments.

Following this remarkable service, he returned as a TACCO on the P-3, attached to various squadrons. His dedication led him to be stationed on the USS Forrestal aircraft carrier out of Mayport Naval Air Station, which was deployed during the Gulf War. James concluded his distinguished Naval career, retiring from Mayport Naval Air Station.

Post-military retirement, he transitioned to the Jacksonville, FL Mayor's Office, serving as a Quality Specialist. His program in the mayor's office earned Jacksonville the prestigious Quality Award.

Subsequently, he devoted 14 years to the United States Postal Service, excelling as both a Quality Specialist and Auditor until his full retirement. The Quality Program he established for the Jacksonville, FL Mayors Office, was also implemented into the US Postal offices in the Southeast region.

James “Jim” as many knew him, is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Kathi. He leaves behind his children: Dillon Rose of Gainesville, FL, and Logan Rose (Brittney), along with grandchildren Lyla and Gavin Rose, all residing in Jacksonville, FL. Additionally, he is survived by his brother, Darrell Rose (Jancy) of Colorado Springs, CO; sisters Deann Blankenship (Larry) of Topeka, KS, Karen Swanson (Dana) of Hutchinson, KS, and brother, Bryan Rose (Pam) of Ottawa, ON Canada, along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins, James was preceded in death by his parents.

A Graveside Service to Honor James will take place on Monday, October 2, 2023 11:00 am at The Jacksonville National Cemetery Lane # 2, located at 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218. The service will include full military Honors conducted by the United States Navy Honor Guard. Those planning to attend should arrive by 10:45 am In Lane # 2. Following the service, a private celebration of life gathering will be held, and the location will be provided at the Memorial Service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in James’ name.

Mission Statement:

"This is the true joy in life, being used for a purpose recognized by myself as a mighty one, being a force of nature instead of a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making me happy. I am of the opinion that my life belongs to my God, wife, and family, and then to my friends and community. As long as I live, it is my privilege to do whatever I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live. Life is no brief candle for me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I got hold of for a moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to my sons and to future generations.” - J. Rose

Arrangements are under the care and direction of HARDAGE-GIDDENS FUNERAL Home In Jacksonville Beach FL.