Rev. James Walter Rowland (October 1, 1932- February 20, 2017) would like to let his loved ones, dearest friends, and community know that his mission here has been fulfilled. He received a call, a sort of offer you cannot refuse, for an appointment from which he will not be returning. This assignment comes with a huge sign-on bonus: joining His heavenly Father and Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, along with a reunion with family and friends that he has not seen in a long time. Job security surpasses 100 percent. His new mission takes him to a wonderful place where there is no suffering, a place where he can watch over us from afar, where eternal life with the King of Kings is guaranteed!

Meanwhile, he is survived by his beloved wife of forty-seven years, Colleen; five children: Diane, James Christopher, Paul, Janet and Sandra; ten grandchildren: Stephen, Nicholas, Kimberly, Brett, Courtney, Lisa, Theresa, Kristen, Kristin and Jeff; his beloved sister, Jeannette and nine great-grandchildren. Additionally, he leaves behind his beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and dearest friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Joyce (and her husband, Frederick), and his granddaughter, Ashley.

In his early life, Rev. Rowland served in the United States Army as a Field Artillery instructor during the Korean War, various sales positions after the war, including the ownership of Potomac Business and Religious Supply in Warsaw, VA before being ordained as a minister. In his later years, he dedicated his life to Christ by serving Him through preaching full time at New Friendship Baptist Church in Burgess, VA, and also at Farnham Baptist Church in Farnham, VA. He also served as an interim pastor and supply pastor at various churches throughout the Northern Neck.

Jim left instructions for his wife, children, grandchildren and friends to celebrate his completed mission. So please join us for this celebration:
Sunday, February 26 at Welch’s Funeral Home in Montross, VA from 4-6 pm for a viewing.
Monday, February 27 at 11 a.m. at Nomini Baptist Church in Montross, VA for the funeral. With a following graveside service and luncheon at Ebenezer United Methodist Church in Oldhams, VA.

Jim’s family wishes to sincerely thank all of you for your prayers, meals, cards and continuous acts of love and service that you have so graciously given to us over the years of his illness. We could not have done it without you! You are the picture of the Body of Christ in love and action.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Westmoreland County Rescue Squad, PO Box 37, Mount Holly, VA 22524 or the Westmoreland County Animal Shelter, PO Box 1000, Montross, VA 22520.