Joseph “Joe” Roland was a unique and beloved figure in the surfing world. Born and raised in New Orleans, he began surfing at a young age and quickly gained attention for his distinctive “goofy-footer” style. By the time he was 17, Joseph had already made history, winning the East Coast Surfing Association Men’s Championship. This early achievement solidified his status as a rising legend in the surfing community, and his reputation only grew stronger as he aged.
Tragically, Joseph passed away on November 7 in a surfing accident. After heading to the ocean for what would be his final wave, he was later found washed up on the shore. Despite the best efforts of the St. John’s County Fire Rescue Team, Joseph was pronounced dead at the age of 73. His untimely passing left the community mourning the loss of a figure who had left an indelible mark on the sport and the people around him. To honor his memory, the community came together to celebrate his life and contributions.
On November 22, members of the surfing community gathered at Jacksonville Beach to pay tribute to Joseph. The ceremony was heartfelt, with attendees bringing flowers to release into the ocean—an homage to the place where Joseph spent so much of his life. Beyond his surfing achievements, Joseph was remembered for his unwavering faith and his infectious positivity. A close acquaintance shared, “Never forget the smile that he had on his face on everything. You know, he was the epitome of Christian to me. He didn’t have to use words to share the gospel. He lived it.” These sentiments reflect how deeply Joseph impacted those who knew him.
Joseph Roland’s legacy in surfing is profound. He won numerous Eastern Championships and was inducted into the Surfing Hall of Fame in 1998. His natural talent and striking electric blonde hair made him a standout in the sport, captivating audiences whenever he took to the waves. Despite his accomplishments, Joseph was known for his humility and lack of interest in trophies or accolades. His passion for surfing, rather than competition, defined his career and inspired countless individuals.
Joseph began surfing at the age of 13 and quickly demonstrated his extraordinary ability. By 18, he had won the East Coast championship, defeating notable figures like Gary Propper and Claude Cogden. His victory earned him significant recognition, with Surfing magazine praising him in 1968: “There isn’t a surfer in the East who can put his board into a given position on a wave faster or with greater confidence than Joe.”
Despite his competitive success, Joseph rarely competed professionally after the 1970 World Championships. His approach to trophies was emblematic of his personality. For instance, he once repurposed an East Coast Surfing Association Championship trophy by turning its wooden surfboard design into a skateboard, removing the decorative surfer and adding wheels. This act symbolized his indifference to awards, focusing instead on his love for surfing.
While Joseph balanced a regular job as a computer programmer in Jacksonville, his true passion always lay in the ocean. Surfing was never just a sport for him—it was a way of life. His dedication and joy inspired those around him, ensuring his legacy would endure long after his passing. Joseph Roland’s life serves as a testament to the power of passion and purpose, making him a legend not just in the surfing world, but in the hearts of all who knew him.