William Thomas Roche Jr. (Billy), 78, passed away on April 25, 2021 at his home in Largo FL. Billy was born to Willam Roche Sr. and Helena R (Cochlin) Roche in Boston, Massachusetts. He is survived by his four children, William Roche III, John Roche, Jackie Pennella, and Cindy Roche, three grandchildren; Tyler, Zachary, and Austin Pennella, two siblings, John Roche and Cheryl Ducharme, and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents, brother Francis (Butch) Roche, and nephew Timithy Roche.
Billy was a Marine Corps veteran who served from 1960 – 1964.
Billy loved cars, all cars which fit well with his profession as a car salesman and sales manager for most of his working career. He was an avid NASCAR fan especially of Richard Petty, and he attended many NASCAR races up and down the East coast from Daytona FL, to Louden NH. On many rainy days Billy could be found focusing intently on building model race cars as long as there was no NASCAR race on television of course. He attended racetracks throughout Mass with his Dad, brothers, and nieces and nephews on a weekly basis during the summer months ranging from Dirt tracks in Lakeville Ma, to ovals in Seekonk, and Thompson speedway in Connecticut. It did not matter where the races were, he was going, he would be the driver and pick up anyone that wanted to join.
Billy was blessed with a community of friends in Largo FL where there was a mutual respect and caring between all to help one another whenever or wherever needed. The family would like to thank all of Billy’s friends, Doneta, Steve, Pam, and Terri for their kindness, support, and assistance during this difficult time.
A graveside service will be announced at a later date with internment to be held at Bay Pines Veterans Cemetery in St. Petersburg, FL.
