Earl Lee Rowland

Earl Lee Rowland
July 13, 1955 - Oct. 27, 2018
Seaside
"Big Earl" was his chosen moniker; he never met a stranger.
Earl Lee Rowland Jr. passed from this life during prayer while surrounded by an abundance of loving family members and friends. What an amazing home going!
Big Earl was born in Washington, DC. Shortly thereafter his family made their home in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. His family and childhood friends called him "Skippy". Earl was the eldest of four children; two sisters, Jackie and Barbara and a brother, George. Earl's parents and his youngest sister Barbara preceded him in death.
Big Earl loved sports, especially basketball! After graduating from Boggs Academy in Keysville, Georgia, Earl attended Winston Salem State University and played basketball for the legendary coach Clarence "Big House" Gaines. He spent time with the New York Knicks before enlisting in the U.S. Army. In his service, he also suited up and played for the All Army basketball team. While stationed at Fort Ord, California he met, and later married, Glorietta, his wife of 38 years.
Following his military service, Earl worked for the City of Seaside Oldemeyer Center and then for All Saints Day School in Carmel Valley. He was coach, mentor, and advocate for so many of the youth in these communities, providing guidance and instilling positivity towards achieving goals. He pushed them hard, but it was with affection and tough love. Many of the youth and young adults, as well as their parents, admired Earl and viewed him as a positive influence and role model.
Big Earl was boisterous and loved spirited discussions with everyone he knew and anyone he would meet. Earl never bit his tongue, so all who came in contact with him knew exactly where they stood or how he felt about any given situation. Earl was passionate when expressing his views.
Big Earl loved life! He loved his family and his extended family which included many not related by blood. He was a caring individual and those in his circle knew the extent he would go to lend a helping hand if necessary.
Big Earl is survived by his wife Glorietta, son; E J (Brittney), daughter; Jasmin, sister; Jackie, brother; George Williams (Sandra), aunts, uncles, cousins, mother in law, sisters in law, brothers in law, nieces, nephews, and a host of others that all loved him dearly.
Viewing will be Friday November 9th from 4-8pm at Bayside Community Mortuary. Service will be Saturday November 10th at Greater Victory Temple COGIC starting at 11am. The repass will be at the Seaside Boys & Girls Club immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers send donations to the Earl Rowland Scholarship Fund at All Saints Day School:
8060 Carmel Valley Rd.
Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
Lucian Oldenburg


View the online memorial for Earl Lee Rowland