Obituary of James Clayton Rouse

James Clayton “J.C.” “Jim” Rouse, 79, of Roanoke, passed away Thursday, November 5, 2020 at the Virginia Veterans Care Center. Jim was a loving & devoted husband to his wife Lorraine and loving supportive father to his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife Lorraine Gale Rouse of forty-five years just two weeks prior; his son, Tracy Alan Rouse; brother Stanley M. “Buddy” Rouse; and parents Walter M. “Buck” and Ruby Carr Rouse.

Jim graduated from William Byrd High School and joined the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Vietnam, Kansas, Colorado, Virginia, Alaska, and North Dakota.  When he retired, he sold real estate with his brother Bob “Uncle Eddie”, for Century 21 in Salem. On weekends, he would venture into the mountain with his dad “Buck”, and his brother Buddy, to chop wood to burn in the wood stove during the winter months. In the summer he would travel with his wife and youngest daughter to Vermillion Bay Canada to work in the family business. Once the business closed, he remained in Virginia and spent time with family.

Surviving are his children Tammy (Arthur) and Sandra (Tim), daughter-in-law Karen (deceased son Tracy), brother Robert “Eddie” “Bob” (Phyllis), sister-in-law Barbara, brothers-in-law David and Allan. Also survived by five grandchildren he was very proud of, Nikolaus (Gabrielle), Chase, Kyra (Joseph), Tyler, and Clinton, as well as three great grandchildren James, Elena, and Anna Grace (born shortly before his death). His presence in our lives will be sorely missed. He would always tell you what you needed to hear, not want you wanted to hear.  When you think of Jim always remember that life on this Earth is short, and our time on it is set by God, so be sure to make the most of that time while you are here.

The family would like to offer a very special thank you to the staff at Virginia Veterans Care Center, Roanoke for their many acts of kindness and compassion shown to Jim over this last year and especially during his last days. He always said you took good care of him and he loved the beautiful grounds when we were able to get out and enjoy them.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to the Virginia Veterans Care Center, 4500 Shenandoah Ave, Roanoke, VA 24017.

A private graveside service will be held to remember both Jim and Lori Rouse on Saturday, December 12 at 10:00 a.m. at Mountain View Cemetery, Vinton, VA.