Thursday, September 7, 2023
I knew Roland as a neighbor and friend on Littlefield Road. One of the most gentle, kind and unassuming persons I have ever met. His eyes had a sparkle and he was always smiling but he said few words. I do remembering a brief conversation where I learned Roland didn't consider himself a blueberry farmer. His parents, but not him; it was not his vision of satisfaction.
Much later, when my husband and I found he was living at Valehaven Home for Adults we reached out to him to come to a Bible study we were attending at the Camden United Methodist Church next door. He came several times, accompanied by another resident there. His seemed a bit lonely and lost, his health was obviously declining, but his Christian Spirit was soaring. Roland recognized me, we reconnected over some Littlefield Road memories and, most of all we shared our love for our Lord. Others in our Bible study enjoyed his presence and the warmth of his spirit for as long as we could, until COVID hit our area and everything shut down.
I often thought of Roland after that, and wondered where he was. We're saddened, but thankful to know his suffering is over and he is home with our Lord. Rest in peace, dear Roland.