The local Jacksonville Beach community and the broader surfing world are mourning the passing of Joe Roland, a legendary figure in the sport who left a lasting impression both on and off the waves. Roland, 73, tragically passed away after being found washed up on the shore in Ponte Vedra Beach with his surfboard still attached to his ankle.
According to
The St. Augustine Record
, beachgoers attempted to resuscitate Roland early yesterday morning before rescue personnel arrived and pronounced him deceased. A spokesman from the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Roland was alone, and the specific cause of death remains to quickly ascertain at this time. Roland, who grew up in Atlantic Beach, was a revered member of the local surfing scene and became the first men’s champion of the East Coast Surfing Association at 17.
Joe Roland was inducted into the East Coast Surfing Hall of Fame after a decorated career that surged with a win at the East Coast Surfing Championship in 1969. Known for his impressive longevity in the sport, Roland continued to surf with the vigor of someone much younger, even into his 70s. Manager Garrett Carmichael of Sunrise Surf Shop in Jacksonville Beach reminisced to
Action News Jax
, “Joe was just a really good guy. He was a good human being, a kind man, and he’s gonna be very missed in the community.”
Roland was also remembered for his faith and impact on the community. “He was the happiest, nicest, mellowest guy”, Mitch Kaufmann, another cherished member of the local surf community, told
The St. Augustine Record
. “He’s a Christian, and this is what everybody says about Joseph — he walked the walk. When it came to being a Christian, he was the real deal.” Roland was a retired computer programmer and was also known for his musical talents, contributing to worship bands and recording music in his home studio.
In remembrance of Joe Roland’s legacy, a paddle-out is being organized by friends and family, though no date has been confirmed as they continue to grieve. “Joe never met anyone he didn’t show love to. He never had a bad word for anybody,” mentioned Mickey Ross, his friend and pastor, in a statement obtained by
Stab Magazine
.
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