ROY, James (Jim) (Mr. Flagstaff)

Arizona Daily Sun, Flagstaff, Arizona, Tuesday, November 13, 2012 James “Mr. Flagstaff” Roy left his earthly body Wednesday, November 7th in Flagstaff, AZ surrounded by friends and co-workers. He was born Catholic, on April 26,1962, to Mrs. Claire Roy in Inglewood, CA. Jim had 1 sister, Sandi Roy-Mailloux, of Manchester NH and 1 brother, Kenneth Roy, of Ocala Fl. Jim moved to Flagstaff in 1982 to attend Northern Arizona University where he graduated with a BS degree in Construction Management. He was hired by Flagstaff Design & Construction in 1990. Starting as a Project Superintendent, Jim was promoted to the position of V.P., General Manager and interest owner in the corporation because of his determination, hard work, trustworthiness and general ease-about-him. Jim’s work was a big component in his life. He cared deeply and had great regard for his clients and employees, treating all with the highest level of respect and dignity while fostering & building a multi-cultural work community that championed true relationships. His tolerance and accepting nature in work will be dearly missed in the greater Flagstaff Region. Testaments of his 22-year tenure can be seen at many regional educational institutions; city, county and state sites; as well as many of Flagstaff’s most important businesses & companies. Jim was always there for family & friends. His selfless sacrifices were reflected in his never-ending giving of time, personal & professional talents & expertise, personal property, and whatever else he could give to help someone else have a better, more enriched life. He was always present with whomever he was with and never made anyone feel like they were anything other than the focus of his world at that moment. “Mr. Flagstaff’s” many friends whose lives were positively impacted will forever remember him. “Good Day” was the opening line of his phone mailbox message. Jim not only wished this upon all whom he met, but strived daily to fulfill this aspiration in his own life. Jim was constantly surrounded by many disparate circles of friends & workers whom he was constantly acting as the hub of a wheel, drawing each spoke into the center where his energy, love and respect for all forged ever-new friendships and acquaintances. Jim felt a “bridge” could always be built, and was tireless in this endeavor. Jim wished for people to see each other for “who they are” and would regularly espouse revelry to accentuate individualism, both his friends and his own. His annual “Earth Day Birthday” and “Santa Crawl” were 2 examples of his public displays- all in good fun- which Jim was always “game” for. Jim was also a true believer in and supporter of his community. His private involvements in the community were sincere and many with a strong focus on children. Just to name a few: Big Brothers/ Big Sisters of NA, Special Olympics, Flagstaff Food Bank and Habitat for Humanity. Additionally, his tolerance and caring for those who were down-on-their-luck was notable. Jim also had many personal interests, which he was always sharing in the company of others. From poker night to bowling to First Friday Art Walks, skiing, movies, dinner parties or dinner out, Jim was always at the center smiling and encouraging fun. He also liked travel to places that challenged his view of the “normal”, from Cuba to Mexico to Alaska, as examples. He looked forward to his weekend walks around the greater Flagstaff Downtown with his best friend John, tugging at the leash. Jim is survived by his mother, sister, brother, 1 niece, 2 nephews and the “Apple of his Eye”, John his Saint Bernard. All were very dear to Jim. He made deliberate exception to having a positive presence in all their lives through his selfless caring and giving in any way possible, all in order to make the lives of those around him better. A celebration of Jim’s life will take place Wednesday November 14th 2012 from 12-3PM at the Elks Lodge @ 2101 N San Francisco, Flagstaff. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Special Olympics AZ/Mountain region 2100 S. 75th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85043. All attending are encouraged to wear their Hawaiian shirts! His remains will be returned to the family’s home in Manchester, NH where Jim will be laid in his final resting place. A memorial has been started by Jim’s friends and family along the rock wall of his home under the tiled moniker “Mr. Flagstaff” on Butler Avenue just east of San Francisco Street. Anyone is invited to add to this hallowed site. This obituary was prepared by the Advertising Department (928) 556-2279.