James L. Van

Born on July 1, 1951, in Hartford, Connecticut, Jim was the son of the late Linwood Van and Jeannette (Michaels) Woodall and stepson of the late Gordan Woodall.

A graduate of Chariho High School, Class of 1969, Jim went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in media and communications studies from the University of Maryland, Class of 1974. He also earned a degree in Navy Security from the Naval War College, Class of 1983. He served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. As well as serving in the reserves for over 24 years. A life-long learner, he was an avid reader and he enjoyed sailing, gardening and traveling. Jim was also a pilot, as well as a true rock and roll fan, he took great pleasure from the fact that he was the host of The Rock and Roll Root Cellar on WHJY and had many fans who loved to call in. He also loved France, food, and good wine, as well as animals, especially his dogs Andy and Ana and his cat Jethro. His later passions include IT and Entrepreneurial Leadership. He loved helping people and wanted the best for everyone. He was a kind, gentle, and a nonjudgmental person. He was a loving father, uncle, and grandfather. We hope he is somewhere he can run, walk in the sand, and swim in the Ocean. We will love and miss him always.

In addition to his wife, Roberta “Robbie” Rose, he is survived by his daughter Maya Van and her husband David Van of Warwick and their three children, Jim’s three grandchildren, Hunter James, Savannah Dorothea, and Peyton Bernadette. He is also survived by his nephew Joshua Jones and niece Rebecca Jones; He was the brother of the late Catherine Reitman.

Private arrangements are in the care of Sugarman-Sinai Memorial Chapel, Providence.