Donald James Roland

Elder Donald Tames Roland was born on May 21, 959, in Chicago, Illinois to the proud parents, Mr and Mrs. Freeman Roland. In 1972 Donald relocated to California, where he resided with his older brother, Elbert and his wife. He later graduated from El Cerrito High School in El Cerrito, California.

Donald accepted Christ at an early age and began a lifelong journey of faith and service. He was a devoted member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, where he faithfully served in the choir. He later became a member of Greater Mt. Calvary Church of God in Christ under the leadership of of Superintendent Charles M. Levias. In answering his divine calling, Donald was ordained as an Elder in the Church of God In Christ.

A man deeply passionate about ministry and music.

Elder Roland was a gifted vocalist who served as a lead soloist in the choir. His love for gospel music led him to fulfill his dream of becoming a Gospel Artist, releasing two full-length gospel albums and building a meaningful social media presence. His music and message will continue to inspire for generations to come.

Elder Roland was a dedicated Bible Study teacher and a committed leader of Noonday Prayer. He had a heart for evangelism and was especially passionate about his Street Witnessing Ministry, where he ministered to all who were willing to hear the Word of God.

His favorite scripture was Philippians 2:13: "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure."

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Freeman Roland, Betty J. Haynes, Shannon Roland, Jennie Roland, Freeman Roland Jr., Fleming Roland, Narvell Gole and Little Man.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife, Alnita Roland; his daughter Raquell Roland Jeffrey Stephens); his stepsons Roy Edwards III, Willie Tate, and Landrell Marshal, step- daughter Deanna Young, and his god-daughter Tammy Foster He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren:

Denaja Stallworth, Otis Gallon, Jai Gallon, Zae'Cree Stephens, and Neema'Kia Stephens.

He leaves behind his siblings: Elbert Rolin, Lovie Oliver, Eauseabon Hal Roland, Delorise Cole, Charles Roland, Keith Heard, Dwayne Heard.

Donald shared a special bond with his sister Lovie, whom he lovingly called his second mother.

He also leaves a host of cherished nephews:

Including Hal Roland, Steven Roland, Marcel Spain, Sharron Spain, David Cole, Walter Cole, cherished niece Catherine Goodman along with many nieces, cousins, and dear friends.

Elder Donald James Roland's life was a testament to faith, music, and service. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched, the word he preached, and the songs he sang.