Big Earl, hard to believe it’s been 5 years, i miss running into you, and Glorietta, at the Blues in the Park, seeing you on the corner of Fremont and Broadway supporting one thing or another. I hope you’re Resting In Peace my friend. It was a pleasure working with you at Oldemeyer center!

I am thinking today of you Big  Earl. It's hard to believe it's been 5 yrs since you left this earth. I know you are in Heaven looking down upon all of us who knew you especially your family. 
I hope you and Rick are playing lots of basketball.
You are missed.

 Skippy was my 1st Cousin. His Father Uncle Earl and my Mother , Juanita were siblings. Skippy and Jackie use to visit us in Durham NC. I remember Skippy chasing bullies, 3 and4 years older than himself ! Laughing at them as they ran up street. He did a victory backflip, first time I've ever seen someone do one of those. That 6 year old really packed a puch. Skippy grew up as a protector, a mentor , leader, coach,a Father and Friend.  It saddens me that such a JOY has left us. To My Family, Continue to trust in God, in him your Strength lies. Miss you BigCuz.


Skippy is the name that we called him and he was like a third brother alway fun to hang with, he would stay with my family in the summer.  Skippy never met a stranger and he had a big heart he will  truly be missed.  His mother and dad has welcomed him home.

I want to say how sorry I am that Earl is no longer physically with you. I know his spirit is with all of you and will never leave you. I know how much he loved you! It was so obvious every time  he spoke about all of you because his face would just light up! I know he was so proud of his kids and he just loved Glorietta.  He had such a presence that was hard to miss and had such a booming voice! He loved the game of basketball and did all he could to teach kids to play the game. Always remember that he loved you and the love you gave him was the only thing he could take with him to his new home in heaven. And as long as you speak about him he lives on in your hearts.  May God ease your pain and lessen your burden at this difficult time!

Big Earl, you were always such a light especially in the basketball stands. I’m thankful to have connected with Jasmine and come into contact with you. Praying for your family during this tough time and I hope you’re resting peacefully.

Dearest Glorietta and family, I cannot express enough, how shocked I was to hear of Big Earl's passing, he was just one of those guys that you thought would live on forever. I have the fondest memories of working at the Oldemeyer Center with him,  and when he left, he still remained a wonderful friend, always made a person feel special when he saw them. Please accept my sincerest condolences, and Big Earl, I'm sure you're up there in heaven taking care of business as you did down here.  Please give my Rudy the biggest hug ever when you see him there, and I know you will. Rest In Peace my friend. 

Big Brother, I sit and think of all the great times we enjoyed in the hot Tub and just hanging out. Helping each other with things that needed to be done. You were always there for me my friend may you rest in peace now with all you family that has pass before us. God Blessed us with you brother.



Big brother, you  were always there for everyone, just like our mother Vivian, with a heart of gold and never meeting a stranger.
Your love for the outdoors came from our mother, who use to sit with us at the peer in Washington DC trying to catch a fish, that you thought we would eat for dinner.
Our trips to WSSU in the Gremlin car with the rusted tail pipe, let everybody know Mandingo was on campus, which made me feel so special.
Now you are with Mom, Dad (Earl Sr., George) and Barbara enjoying heaven without a care in the world smiling because you were the true definition of a husband, father, brother and friend.  Rest in Heaven Skippy..... 

OBITUARY

Earl Lee Rowland Jr.

July 13, 1955 – October 27, 2018

Bayside Community Mortuary

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Updates

Services