Roland "Rollie" Emerson

Roland Scott Emerson was born in Portland, Maine on May 27, 1956 to Clifford and Madeline Emerson. Those who knew him called him “Rollie.” He grew up with his four brothers in Windham, Maine. After graduating high school, he joined the United States Air Force where he served proudly for 4 years. He later served in the Air Force Reserves for 8 years. During his reserve service, Rollie earned degrees from St. Mary’s Seminary and University and Northeast Louisiana University. He then began his esteemed career in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries working for several major companies including Bausch and Lomb, Merck Pharmaceuticals, and Bayer Pharmaceuticals. He also created his own consulting business, and his unique skillset and work experience were always in high demand. His strong work ethic and dedication garnered great respect in his field. His vocation took him to numerous countries across five continents. As a result, he learned to speak Spanish, German, French, a little Mandarin, and a little Italian. In his spare time, Rollie enjoyed playing guitar, woodworking, cooking, and sports. He played and sometimes sang praise music during worship services but seemed to find the most musical pleasure while sitting alone and strumming softly. With diverse interests, he was just as at home behind a wood lathe as he was a grill. He also loved coaching baseball and taught countless young players the basics of the game and a bit about becoming a man. Perhaps Rollie’s greatest joy was the time he spent with family and friends. He and his wife of 29 years had one son, and the threesome loved nothing more than family vacations. They traveled throughout the U.S. and abroad, exploring nature in her purest form. But Rollie’s favorite getaway was always Walt Disney World where he delighted in being a kid again. No trip was ever complete until he and John Austin skipped down Main Street, hand in hand. Rollie’s faith journey began while he was in the USAF and continued to grow throughout his life. He spoke openly about his Christian beliefs with both friends and colleagues and sometimes complete strangers. He led retreats and enjoyed mission trips. Most certainly he planted many seeds of faith which are still growing. With his wife and son at his side, Rollie slipped from his earthly body on January 25, 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer. His family will forever treasure the compassion and kindness of his doctors, nurses, and therapists who cared so lovingly for him throughout his illness. Rollie was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; son, John Austin; brothers, David (Kimberly), Stanlee (Wendy), Bobby (Stacey), and Jimmy (Brenda); numerous nieces and nephews, and many special friends. His family and friends will miss his laughter, his clever comebacks, and his unique spirit but will forever hold him closely in their hearts. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Lung Cancer Research Foundation or your local animal shelter or wildlife rescue. If you are able, please also consider donating blood or platelets to your local blood bank in Rollie’s memory.

Tributes

Roland "Rollie" Emerson

May 27, 1956 - January 25, 2020