Fred Junior Roland

Fred J. Roland, 85 died Friday, December 11, 2015 at his daughter’s home in Orlando, Florida. He was born February 14, 1930 in Gastonia, a son of the late El Roland and Elizabeth (Betty) Mathis. He married the late Carrie M. Ray in 1947. They were happily married for 47 years.

Fred Roland came from humble beginnings, growing up in West Gastonia (Greasey Corner) of which he was very proud. He started working as a ticket taker in a movie theater in downtown Gastonia, where he met his wife Carrie, at a very young age. He went on to work at Dunn Mill for a short time, before moving on to Threads Inc. as a Shipping Clerk. Wanting to further himself in life he studied to become a Welder/ Fabricator where he later worked at Gaston County Dye Inc. Sprouting his creative and business wings he went on to design, build and co-own Westland Stoves Inc. When Westland Stoves was sold in the 1980’s, he returned to Gaston County Dye to work until his retirement.

In the last few months of his life, Fred Roland moved to Orlando, Florida with his daughter Linda, due to his illness where his love of God helped sustain him through this difficult time.

Fred Roland, a loving father was extremely close to and proud of his children and grandchildren. Family was very important to him. He is preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife; brothers Wade and Charles (Buster); sisters Ruth and Hazel; son-in-law Jim Wright.

Survivors include daughters Linda Wright, Jean Beard; son-in-law Frank Beard; former son-in-law Jerry Willis, grandchildren Shari Wright, Andy Wright, Chris Willis; step grandson Kyle Beard; sister-in-law Irene Roland and many cousins, nieces and nephews all of whom he loved dearly.

A special thanks goes to the neighbors of Fred Roland, all of whom supported and assisted greatly in his declining years.

Friends and family will be received at Armstrong Memorial Cemetery, Thursday December 17, 2015 at 11 am, in a Graveside Service to celebrate his life.

Condolence messages maybe sent online to Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park is serving the family of Fred Roland.