Larry Earl Roland

Larry Earl Roland, 71, took his heavenly flight on July 27, 2025. Born on July 30, 1953, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Velma Louise Hubbard and Wilmer Elijah Roland, Larry was raised in Kansas City, KS and attended Fairfax Elementary, Northwest Junior High, and graduated from Wyandotte High School in 1971. He continued his education, earning an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Kansas City Kansas Community College, a bachelor’s degree from both Park University and Wichita State University, and a Master’s Degree from Grambling State University.

Larry professed his faith at an early age at Oak Ridge Baptist Church under Pastor J.D. Downs and later joined Eighth Street Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as Chairman of the Deacon Board. On May 29, 1976, Larry married his high school sweetheart, Olivia Marcia Boyice, who remained his devoted partner and caregiver until his passing. Together, they shared a beautiful life and raised two daughters.

A pillar in his community, Larry dedicated 49 years to civil service, beginning with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department (#613), continuing with the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP 120), and concluding with 12 years as Undersheriff with the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Department (#1101). Throughout his distinguished career, Larry served in numerous specialized units, including:

• KCK Cadet Program

• Dispatch Unit

• Traffic (West Patrol)

• Helicopter Unit

• SWAT Team (specializing in gang and drug enforcement)

His unwavering professionalism and passion for law enforcement left an indelible legacy and inspired countless others to follow in his footsteps. Larry was also a devoted member of Abundant Life Church under Dr. Rev. Ricky Bragg, where he led the security ministry. He was a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, serving as a State Representative with commitment and pride.

Larry leaves behind a loving legacy through his cherished wife, Olivia, whom he affectionately called “Beautiful,” and his two daughters, Tomika Olivia Marie Coleman and Jakay Monique (Sean) Tillman and God Daughter, Angel Olivia Marie Porter. He was the proud grandfather of five grandchildren, lovingly known as “The Crew”: Jada Adrenae Coleman, Ja’Mya Alivia Marie Coleman, Jalaina Jashaun Tillman, Carlos Suk-Ye Russell, and Sean Blake Tillman II.

He is also survived by his sister, Dr. Juanita Marie Roland-McGowan, and his brothers, Kevin Lynn (Mary Ann) Cole and Milton Odell (Anita) Cole, Jr. He was preceded in death by his parents Velma Louise and Wilmer Elijah Roland, and sister Wilma Wilnetta Earlene Roland-Higgins. Larry Earl Roland will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community he served so faithfully. His strength, wisdom, and love will live on in the many lives he touched.