James Don (JD) Rowland, aged 90, passed away at his home on April 19, 2025. Born on July 7, 1934, in Kirbyton, Kentucky, JD was a cherished community figure, known for his skilled hands as a self-employed mechanic and his unwavering faith as a deacon at Bardwell Baptist Church since 1975.
A man of the outdoors, JD found joy in fishing and hunting, pursuits that were matched by his passion for beekeeping and his simple love of feeding and watching birds at his home in his yard. His deep affection for his family, friends, and church community was the cornerstone of his life. JD’s legacy is defined by the love he poured into every facet of his existence and the countless lives he touched with his witnessing, kindness, and dedication. He will be dearly missed, leaving behind memories that will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have known him.
JD is survived by his wife of 15 years, Linda Rowland; his son, Brian K. (Melody) Rowland, of Payson, Arizona; two step-sons, Randy (Lesa) West, of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, and Russell (Heather) West, of White Lake, Michigan; three sisters, TJ Hill, of Mountain Home, Arkansas, Joyce C. Deemer, of Henderson, Kentucky, and Diania S. (Ben) Murphy, of Henderson, Kentucky; a brother, Simon P. (Priscilla) Rowland, of Henderson, Kentucky; two grandchildren, Melissa (Mike) Hanlon, of Fredericksburg, Virginia and Emily (Tim) Mertzweiler, of Emmett, Idaho; as well as seven great grandchildren, nine step-grandchildren, and 10 step-great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Brenda J. Rowland; his parents, Boyce and Eva Rowland; and a brother, Robert W. Rowland.
A funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Milner and Orr Funeral Home of Bardwell with Bro. Jason Burnett officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Milner and Orr Funeral Home of Bardwell.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Bardwell Baptist Church Evangelism, PO Box 147, Bardwell, Kentucky, 42023.
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