Roland Leroy Kimberlin

Roland Kimberlin, 90, of Nashville, TN, passed away peacefully on November 14th, surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 1, 1935, in East Texas, KY, Roland lived a life defined by discipline, integrity, and unwavering devotion to the people he loved.

The oldest of four brothers, Roland grew up in Springfield, KY, where responsibility and determination shaped him from an early age. He graduated from Springfield High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Centre College in Danville, KY, attending on a full football scholarship.

At Centre, Roland distinguished himself both on and off the field. He was voted team captain of the football team — a testament to his leadership and the respect of his teammates — and was elected president of his fraternity, Delta Kappa Epsilon (the Dekes). These achievements were among the personal honors he cherished most.

On August 3rd, 1957, Roland married the love of his life, Janetta Kay Kimberlin, in Springfield, KY. Their marriage of 67 years became a model of faith, commitment, and enduring partnership. Together they raised a family rooted in strength, generosity, and shared purpose.

Roland began his career as a teacher and football coach before joining the Henry I. Siegel Company on October 3rd, 1966, where he would serve for 34 years. Through determination and leadership, he rose through the company, becoming President of Manufacturing and guiding H.I.S. through its transformation into Chic by H.I.S., employing more than 6,000 people and becoming one of Tennessee’s largest privately owned employers at the time. Roland was deeply proud of the jobs he created, the young managers he mentored, and the communities strengthened by the company’s presence.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Roland’s true pride was his family. He is survived by his daughters Deborah Kimberlin and Lynn Kimberlin Burkett; son Bill Kimberlin and daughter-in-law Athena Kimberlin; granddaughter Kimberlin Burkett and her husband Garrett Torsper; sister Sharon Coyle; and brothers Ronnie Kimberlin and Dixie Kimberlin. He is also remembered by numerous nieces and nephews across the Kimberlins, Thorntons, and Coyles. Roland was preceded in death by his beloved wife Janetta Kay Kimberlin and his brother Robert Kimberlin.

A man with the mind of an engineer and the heart of a teacher, Roland brought precision, planning, and deep curiosity to every endeavor. After retiring, he devoted himself to supporting his son’s business and continued mentoring those who sought his guidance. He loved running, golf, Kentucky football, traveling, and simply sharing time and stories with family and friends.

Roland’s legacy lives on in the generations he inspired, the careers he shaped, and the communities he uplifted. His life was one of purpose, faith, and generosity — a testament to what it means to lead with both strength and humility.

Services will be held on Saturday, November 22nd at Woodlawn–Roesch–Patton Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 660 Thompson Lane, Nashville, TN 37204.

Visitation: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

Service: 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM

Food & Fellowship: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM