Rockwood, Pennsylvania, August 21, 2025
News Summary
The town of Rockwood mourns the loss of James Edward Sembower, a beloved community member known for his vibrant spirit and passion for golf. A dedicated family man and influential coach, James left a lasting impact on many throughout his 72 years. His contributions to the community and love for the sport of golf will be fondly remembered as friends and family gather to celebrate his life.
Rockwood Community Mourns the Loss of Beloved Local Figure
The small town of Rockwood, Pennsylvania, is feeling a deep sense of loss after the passing of a cherished member of their community, James Edward Sembower. James, who was known for his vibrant spirit and commitment to his hometown, departed this world at the age of 72 on August 16, 2025, while in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
A Lifelong Rockwood Resident
Born on September 16, 1952, James was a true Rockwood native. After graduating from the Rockwood Area School District in 1970, he made a name for himself not only as a dedicated student but also as a talented athlete, playing on both the basketball and baseball teams for the Rockwood Rockets. His love for sports and his community started young, displaying the kind of passion that would stay with him throughout his life.
A Robust Career in Railroading
After completing his studies at Allegany Community College in 1973 and briefly attending Slippery Rock University, James found his calling as a railroad engineer. He dedicated a remarkable four decades to this profession, retiring from CSX Transportation in 2012. It was more than just a job; it was a career that shaped his life and allowed him to form lasting friendships with coworkers and rail enthusiasts.
Coaching and Community Service
James was not only a skilled railroad engineer but also an influential role model for the younger generation. He devoted ten years to coaching the Rockwood Junior Varsity Basketball team, where he undoubtedly inspired many young athletes to excel both on the court and in life. His impact extended further as he served on the Rockwood School Board for an additional ten years, playing a vital role in the educational landscape of his beloved community.
Passion Beyond Work
Outside of his professional commitments, James enjoyed many hobbies, one of which was golf. He participated in several leagues, including those at The Club at Kings Mountain in Rockwood and Harry’s Golf League in Myrtle Beach. This passion for golf reflected his love for nature and active lifestyle.
A Family Man
James was married to his loving wife, Rosemarie “Rose” Sembower, for nearly 51 years. Together, they built a beautiful family, welcoming two children—son Adam, who is married to Jenna Svonavec Sembower, and daughter Kelli. The couple was also blessed with four grandchildren: Paul Lucas, Jack Louis, Karysn Rose, and Demi Rose. James had a special bond with each grandchild, imparting wisdom and joy during family gatherings.
Community Connections
James’s contributions to the community didn’t end with his professional and familial duties; he was also a proud 33rd Degree Mason and a member of several local organizations. He belonged to the Meyersdale BPOE, Donegal Legion Post 941, and Eagles Aerie 1801. Known affectionately as “the candy-man,” James had a knack for creating delightful chocolate treats, bringing smiles to everyone around him.
A Heartfelt Farewell
While the family has chosen not to hold a formal funeral service, they are planning a celebration of James’s life at a later date, allowing friends and loved ones to come together in memory of this remarkable man. They expressed their gratitude to the staff at McMillan-Small Funeral Home & Crematory in Myrtle Beach and the nursing staff at Grand Strand Hospital for their compassionate care during the final days of James’s life.
Remembering James Sembower
As the community of Rockwood remembers James, his family hopes that the cherished memories and laughter shared over the years will serve as a comforting reminder of the life he so passionately lived. From being a devoted family man to a community servant, James Edward Sembower touched many lives and will be sorely missed.
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Additional Resources
- Bevis Funeral Home: Charles Rockwood
- Wikipedia: Rockwood, Pennsylvania
- Dignity Memorial: Ruby Rockwood
- Google Search: James Edward Sembower
- Cape Cod Times: Neila Jane Smith Rockwood
- Encyclopedia Britannica: James Edward Sembower
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
