Isaac Francis “Ike” Rowland

DURHAM- Mr. Isaac “Ike” Francis Rowland,  faithful servant of the Lord, left his earthly home on February 20, 2014, to live eternity in his Heavenly home with Jesus. He’s been walking with Jesus for many years here on this earth with great assurance knowing he was going home one day to be with Jesus. He has traveled many places, but he’s  now  on the best trip ever, in the best place ever. Ike knew Heave was his final destination. After 99 years (born February 6, 1915), Jesus finally called him home.

Ike was born in Durham Co. (Oak Grove), the son of the late Will and Ada Rowland, brother of the late Walter Rowland, Ed Rowland, Fannie R. Caulder, Lillie R. Hickman, and Mary R. Grady.

Ike was a devoted husband and a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Martha Clements Rowland; his son of 66 years, Clem Rowland; and his granddaughter of 8 years, Arlinda Bowen. His three surviving children are Beal Rowland (Donna) of Durham; Carrollynn Bowen (Jerry Briley) of New Bern; Casandra McBroom (Ralph) of Hurdle Mills; and his widowed daughter-in-law, Jean Rowland of Surf City, NC. His five surviving grandchildren are Tony Rowland (Jackie); Scotty Rowland; Rowland Bowen (Courtney); Beverly M. Clark (Jason); and Kevin McBroom (Liz). His five surviving great-grandchildren are Collin Rowland, Alexis Rowland, Griffin Clark, Emma Bowen, and Isaac  Bowen.

Ike had a deep love for Jesus, and a desire for everyone to know Jesus as their Savior. Ike lived what he taught. He had been a member of Angier Avenue Baptist Church since 1939…for 75 years he cherished and was very devoted to his church. He was a member of the Cabin Class at the church. He served many years as Deacon,  Usher, Sunday School Superintendent, Junior and Intermediate Boys Sunday School Teacher, Bible Training  Union (BTU) Secretary, Joyful Noise Choir Member, and served on the Baptismal Committee as well as the House and Ground Committee. He helped with church literature program, maintenance, lights, audio and video programs. He played on the church’s Dart Ball Team, and actually played on the Lawrence Road Baptist Church (Hillsborough) Dart Ball Team for the last several years, until he turned 98. He and his wife, Martha, for many years helped with the youth group and youth choir in many capacities, some including cooking for the youth on retreats and working the light and sound systems for the musicals. They also cooked each week for the Wednesday night suppers at the church prior to Prayer Meeting.  Many years ago, Ike worked with the Boy Scouts of America for about 10 years. Up until the last few years, he faithfully visited members of his church, including the shut-ins. He enjoyed reading, particularly his Bible on a daily basis, working word puzzles, and playing with his GameBoy. Ike worked at the American Tobacco Company from 1945- 1977.

Funeral services will be held at Angier Avenue Baptist Church on Sunday, February 23, 2014, at 2:00 p.m. Rev. James Baggett and Rev. Kevin Byers will officiate. Interment will be in Woodlawn Memorial Park. Active pallbearers will be his grandsons and great-grandsons.

The family will receive friends in the Sanctuary prior to the funeral services beginning at 12:30 p.m. Flowers are acceptable, or memorials may be made to  Angier Avenue Baptist Church, 2101 Angier Ave., Durham, NC 27703, in memory of Ike Rowland. Online condolences can be made at www.hudsonfuneralhome.com.