Philip C. Rowland

Philip "Phil" Rowland, of Highland, NY, age 69, found eternal peace on March 14, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Phil was well known for his quick wit. He always had a joke, or a sarcastic and fun comment handy, which gave him a unique ability to find humor in everyday moments. He would always say things like "If you can’t laugh about a hard situation, you’re crying," a sentiment we hold tightly to today.

As a lifelong enthusiast of all things sports, Phil participated in several recreational leagues in Dutchess and Ulster Counties from the 1980’s through the early 2000’s. He was a member of the local indoor and outdoor soccer (or as he correctly knew it, football), volleyball, and softball leagues. He also dedicated time to coaching the Highland Women’s Town softball league. Later, he continued to pursue his competitive spirit in the Dutchess County APA league, racking up over 1000 matches played. He was a proud supporter of The Arsenal F.C., his passion for the team was a significant part of his life.

Phil’s love for music and appreciation for talent was also evident in his frequent concert attendance over the years. From going to Pink Floyd, Genesis, and Jethro Tull concerts as a youth in England to catching their cover bands and farewell tours in the States in his later life, and many others throughout, he always had a tune to chase.

His memory will forever be treasured by his loving children - Daniel Rowland, Sean (Elizabeth) Rowland, Caroline Rowland, Samantha Rowland and Katie Oliver and his granddaughters - Willow, Gwendolyn, Karleigh and Kaliyah. Phil leaves behind his beloved partner of the past 17 years, Sue McNamara. He is now reunited with his parents, Charles and Katrina Rowland.

It's true when they say that those we love never truly leave us; they walk beside us every day. They may no longer be seen by our eyes, and we may no longer hear their voice, but they are always close. Phil will forever be remembered in the hearts of all who knew him.

A celebration of life for Phil will be held on April 18, 2026 from 3 – 6 PM at Georgie O’s, 787 Violet Ave, Hyde Park, NY. Please feel free to bring any photos of Phil you'd like to share with the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in his memory to your local recreational leagues, youth music programs or cancer research initiatives. They also want to remind everyone to find the joy, even in difficult situations.