William Roland Hancock Jr.

William Roland Hancock Jr., was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend, was born and raised in La Marque, Texas, the beloved son of William Roland Hancock Sr. and Rose Earlene Briggs.

From a young age, Roland carried with him a deep love for his family, his Texas roots, and the coastal beauty of Galveston and the surrounding Gulf. He proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970. During his service at Randolph Air Force Base near San Antonio, he met the love of his life, Bonnie Jean Fielder, when she was just sixteen. After four years of courtship, they were married at Randolph Air Force Base on May 22, 1971, beginning a partnership of fifty-four years filled with devotion, humor, and constant support.

Roland earned his Bachelor of Science in Technology from the University of Houston in 1973 and went on to dedicate his career to Dow Chemical Company in Houston. As a product manager and instrument designer, he was known for his creativity, technical skills, and steady leadership. His work earned him numerous Engineering Excellence Awards, a reflection of the respect he gained among colleagues throughout his career. He retired on July 1, 2019, leaving behind a legacy of accomplishment and innovation.

Roland enjoyed life’s simple pleasures and loved spending time outdoors. He found joy in fishing, grilling, cooking, and working with computers and electronics. He also had a special appreciation for Corvettes and trucks, and he cherished every opportunity to visit Galveston and spend time near the ocean. For twenty-five years, Roland and Bonnie dedicated themselves to supporting their communities by sponsoring National Night Out events. They also volunteered for many years with the Fort Bend Autism Playgroup, sharing their time, compassion, and heartfelt commitment.

Over the years, Roland cared for and loved five dogs, each one a treasured companion. Above all, Roland treasured time with his family. He enjoyed family vacations and cruises, family reunions, and the lively company of his children and grandchildren. One of his favorite pastimes was giving the grandkids rides on his John Deere mower, creating simple moments they will hold dear for the rest of their lives.

Roland was preceded in death by his mother, Rose Earlene Briggs, his sister, Rosemary Hall, his father, William Roland Hancock Sr., his father-in-law, James Marlo Fielder, and his mother-in-law, Wilsilee Irby Fielder. Their memories remained close to his heart throughout his life.

He is survived by his loving wife of fifty-four years, Bonnie Jean Hancock of Sugar Land, Texas. He is also survived by his daughter, Brenda Jenae “Jenny” Clifton, and her husband, Robert Daniel “Bobby” Clifton of Sugar Land, along with their children, Allie Jenae Clifton, Evan Robert Clifton, and Aubrie Lee Clifton. Roland is also survived by his son, William Roland Hancock III “Trey,” and his wife, Jessica Lynn Hancock of Katy, Texas, and their children, Logan Ashton Murray Hancock, William Roland Hancock IV “TJ,” Bella Sophia Murray Hancock, Drake Roland Hancock, Jackson Jeremy Hancock, and Luke Ryder Hancock. Additional family members include his brother, Weldon Ross “Ross” Hancock of Houston, as well as Ron and Janis Fielder of Deer Park, Brenda and Jon Thompson of Boerne, and Kevin and Virginia Fielder of Fulshear. He is also survived by nine nephews and nieces and eleven great nephews and nieces, all of whom brought joy and pride to his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasia. Roland’s beloved grandson, Luke, lives with hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, a rare genetic condition. Supporting research and resources for families facing this disorder was one of Roland’s greatest wishes, and his legacy of love, compassion, and devotion as a grandad will continue through contributions made in his honor. Donations may be made at nfed.org.

Roland’s life was defined by service, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those he loved. His memory will live in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were touched by his steady presence, generous spirit, and quiet strength.