Burkley Gene Rowland

Burkley Gene Rowland, age 86, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, January 25, 2024.  A memorial service will be at 3:00pm on Monday, January 29, 2024, at Green Hills Funeral Home with visitation one hour prior.  
Gene Rowland, known to several folks as “Pop” was born in Dinwiddie County, Virginia, to Joseph and Sallie Rowland. He had the honor of serving his country in the US Marine Corp with multiple tours in Vietnam and embassy duty in Quito, Ecuador. After 23 years of service, Gene retired in Oklahoma, before finally settling in Troy, Alabama. Gene was all about family and serving his country and church. As an avid fisherman he loved to be outdoors and on the water. 
While we lost our most beloved Pop, many lost a friend and loved one in him. He was the rock of our family, a master of conversation and humor. Pop would do anything for his family, friends, or a neighbor. There was so much more to him than words can express. He was a father, a Marine, a paternal figure, a gardener, a dedicated walker, and the list goes on.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Janie King; daughter-in-law, Sharlyn Rowland; and grandchildren, Keith & Candelaria Ealey.   Loving survivors include his devoted wife of over 65 years, Mitzi N. Rowland; children, Dennis M. Rowland, Sharon K. Ealey, David A. Rowland (Jill); grandchildren, Joshua Rowland (Amanda), Oscar Ealey, Michael Ealey, Ryan Rowland (Viktoria), Kaitlynn Rowland, Blakelee Rowland, Addison Rowland, Iain Rowland; great grandchildren, Nathaniel Rowland, Leila Marie Rowland, Jacoby M. Ealey, David (Tony) Ealey, Destiny D. Ealey, Ethan A. Ealey, Kira D. Ealey, Christian (Gage) Ealey, Kalei A. Ealey, Marissa Ealey, and Brooklyn Ealey.  He was also survived by 2 great great grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Anna M. Smith; a brother-in-law, William Smith; and his best friend, Pat Anderson.  
The family invites you to share your memories.  It was his wish that we laugh and reminisce and smile together during this time.
The staff of Green Hills Funeral Home is honored to serve the Rowland family.