Roland Joseph Wills

Roland Joseph Wills lived his life simply, with dignity and grace. Born on August 26, 1930, in Emmet, Nebraska, to Jesse Wills and Martha Welsh, Roland carried with him throughout his life the quiet values instilled in him by his family and his Nebraska roots.

Roland's earliest ambition was a simple but meaningful one: to have a family. In this, he succeeded richly. He was united in marriage to Virginia Flies Wills, who preceded him in death, and together they built a life. Their son, John, lived the majority of his life with severe medical challenges, which Roland and Virginia met with grace and determination, always placing John's needs first. Roland and Virginia adopted a daughter, Amy, who was the light of their life. He often said that his proudest moments were the trips he took with his children — memories he cherished for the rest of his days.

Before beginning his civilian career, Roland proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as a mechanic from 1951 to 1955, during which time he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal.

Roland pursued his education at Wayne State University of Nebraska (formerly Nebraska State Teachers College) before going on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Nebraska in 1959. He later furthered his professional training at the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, graduating in 1967.

He went on to build a distinguished career as a Federal Bank Examiner with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), an institution he served for more than 40 years. Among his proudest professional achievements, Roland counted his decades of dedicated service with the FDIC, work that reflected his integrity, steadiness, and quiet diligence.

Above all, Roland hoped that if others learned anything from the way he lived, it would be kindness. Those who knew him remember a man who carried himself with warmth and humility in equal measure.

Roland was deeply devoted to his Catholic faith from childhood through his final days, never missing Mass, confession, or the praying of the rosary. He gave generously of his time to his parish, participating in collection counting and delivering meals to fellow church members. He lived all his days with a compassionate heart and a love for all.

In his time away from work, Roland found joy in reading historical books. He treasured his regular dinners at Tallgrass with "the guys," gatherings that brought him laughter and lasting friendship. He was a devoted fan of John Denver and his favorite color was red.

Roland is survived by his daughter, Amy Wills Franken, her husband Ross; his grandchildren, Cole Franken and Erin Franken, and Alex Franken and Michelle Kritz; and his brothers, Gerald Wills and Art Wills. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Virginia Flies Wills, and his son, John R. Wills.

Roland's legacy is one of quiet strength, steady devotion, and simple kindness — a life well lived, and a family well loved. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Services will be held on September 14, 2026 at the Curé of Ars Catholic Church, located at 9401 Mission Road, Leawood, Kansas. Rosary will begin at 10:30 am with Mass commencing at 11:00 am. Lunch for family and friends will immediately follow at the home of Amy and Ross Franken.

The interment will take place on September 15, 2026 at 9:00 am at the Resurrection Catholic Cemetery located at 8300 Quivira Road in Lenexa.

Donations in Roland's memory may be made to Curé of Ars Catholic Church and Catholic Charities.