Dr. Lewis Roland Obituary
Dr. Lewis Roland, 86, peacefully departed this life surrounded by the love of his family.
Born in Kinston, North Carolina, Dr. Roland was the beloved son of the late Marie Prillia (Anderson) and Lewis Roland Sr. From an early age, “June” (as Lewis Junior was called) demonstrated a passion for learning, leadership, and service that would define his life’s work.
He graduated Atkins High School in 1958 before beginning his collegiate studies at Hampton University, later transferring to Winston-Salem State Teachers College (now University) where he graduated with a degree in Elementary Education in 1962. He was senior class President, captain of the football team, and in 1961 proudly became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Beta Iota chapter, building lifelong friendships.
Soon after marrying his college sweetheart, Joyce (Simmons) of Goldsboro, North Carolina, in 1961, Dr. Roland accepted his first teaching assignment instructing 8th grade in Danville, Virginia. In the mid-1960s, they relocated to New Jersey for a teaching assignment in Montclair.
Dr. Roland earned his Master’s degree in Education from Seton Hall University and received his Doctorate in Administration Education (Ed.D.) from Rutgers University. He directed the highly respected Upward Bound Program at Seton Hall University, inspiring and mentoring hundreds of students; and opening doors to higher education and brighter futures.
Following the completion of his doctoral studies, Dr. Roland accepted a position as the Assistant Director at the School of Public Health at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which he held for 12 years.
Seeking new challenges, in 1986, Dr. Roland embraced his entrepreneurial spirit and founded Roland & Associates Trucking, becoming one of the first African American-owned trucking companies in the Triangle area. Through his company, he brought his dissertation to life by creating employment opportunities for underserved individuals, believing that meaningful work could change lives and strengthen communities.
Retirement opened an unexpected and exciting new chapter. He took the opportunity to indulge in his passion for golf. Moreover, his distinguished silver beard, charismatic personality, and signature million-dollar smile launched a successful modeling career. Represented by Marilyn’s Modeling & Talent Agency, Dr. Roland’s image appeared throughout the Southeast in numerous print and commercial advertising campaigns for regional and national healthcare, tourism, beverage, and luxury car brands.
While in Chapel Hill, the Roland family were faithful members at St. Paul A.M.E. Church. Dr. Roland served the church with enthusiasm through Vacation Bible School, the Men’s Choir, and other ministries as called upon.
Above all else, Dr. Roland treasured his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, trusted mentor, and faithful friend. His wisdom, generosity, gentle spirit, and infectious smile left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
During his later years, he made his home in Denver, North Carolina, with his daughter, Lisa and son-in-law Arthur Carter, where he attended St. James United Methodist Church and continued to volunteer within the community.
He leaves to cherish his precious memory his devoted wife of 65 years, Dr. Eleanor Joyce (Simmons) Roland of Huntersville, North Carolina; his daughters, Leslie Truelove of Oak Park, Illinois; Dr. Lorecia Kaifa Roland of Anderson, South Carolina; and Lisa (Arthur Sr.) Carter of Denver, North Carolina. He also leaves five beloved grandchildren: Asha Roland, Cameren Truelove, Richard (Richie) Truelove, Arthur Carter, Jr. (AJ), and Blake Carter, along with a host of extended family members (who referred to him by his nickname “Shot” or “Roland”), fraternity brothers, colleagues, former students, church family, and dear friends whose lives were forever enriched by knowing him.
The Roland family extends heartfelt gratitude for every prayer, visit, meal, card, phone call, and expression of love shown during this time of bereavement. Your kindness has been a tremendous source of strength and comfort.
Dr. Lewis Roland’s legacy is not measured solely by the degrees he earned, the positions he held, or the businesses he built, but by the countless lives he uplifted through his wisdom, generosity, unwavering faith, and enduring love. His was truly a life well lived, and his influence will continue for generations to come.
