Phillip James Laroche, age 56, of Estill Springs, departed this life on Monday, Oct. 2, 2017, at his residence, losing his battle with cancer. Mr. Laroche was born in Chicopee, Massachusetts on Sept. 3, 1961, to the late Odias and Bertha Coutu Laroche. He graduated high school at North East High School in St. Petersburg, Florida. After high school he joined the United States Army and after serving his tour of duty he was honorably discharged. Mr. Laroche was employed for many years as a service technician in pest control and was last employed at Burl's Pest Control in Estill Springs before his illness. He was an avid motorcycle rider. Most of all he was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. In addition to his parents, Mr. Laroche was preceded in death by a brother, Edward Laroche. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Mary Laroche of Estill Springs; daughter, Amber Cates of Estill Springs; brothers, John Laroche of Texas and Jean Laroche, and Wilfred Laroche, both of Florida; sisters, Rose Eagar and Yvonne Stewart, both of Mississippi; and one granddaughter, Madison Cates. A memorial service is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 9, 2017, at 6 p.m. in the chapel of Grant Funeral Services in Estill Springs.