James Roland Welch

James Roland Welch, known to family and friends as Jim, or Paw-Paw, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2025. He leaves behind the love of his life, Heather; his two children; two bonus children; a chaos crew of grandchildren who adored him; and his two loyal pups.

Jim dedicated his life to serving others. He retired from the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Department and also served in the K9 unit with the Slidell Police Department. Those who worked alongside him remember his dedication, his humor, and his big heart.

At home, Jim was the heart of the family, always ready with a joke, a story, or to offer a helping hand. He had the best smile and his dance moves at music bingo were legendary—especially his signature robot—always ready to compete and bring laughter to everyone around him. He loved being outdoors, finding peace at his cabin in the mountains, and cherished every moment spent with his family and fur babies.

Jim loved his family fiercely, adored his grandchildren, and had a special connection with all animals in his life. In honor of his love for animals, the family asks that donations be made to PAWS in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

Jim’s laughter, kindness, and spirit will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in every hug, every story, every paw print, every dance-move remembered with a smile, and every cherished moment in the mountains he loved so much. As he said, “always stay humble and kind”.