Maple Nicole "Syrup" Rolan

Maple Nicole "Syrup" Rolan, 47, was born on April 8, 1978, in Kankakee, Illinois, to Milissa Rolan and Eugene Riley. She arrived in this world just one minute after her twin sister, April, marking the beginning of an unbreakable bond that would last throughout their lives.
From a young age, Maple accepted Christ and was baptized in Chicago, Illinois. She shared her spiritual journey with her beloved sister, April, singing harmoniously in the church choir. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life, and she remained a devoted member of the Greater Progressive Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana, until her passing.
Maple's educational journey began in the Chicago Public School System, where she graduated from Gershwin Elementary in 1992 and Englewood Technical Preparatory Academy in 1996. Her pursuit of knowledge continued at Malcolm X College and Chicago State University, where she successfully graduated, setting a strong example for her family and community.
In the late 1990s, Maple met Clark, leading to the birth of her first son, Nijay Truly, in 2001. Her family grew when she met Tommy, and together they welcomed two more sons, Jamari Rolan in 2003 and Armon Rolan in 2010. Maple's love for children extended beyond her own, as she embraced and nurtured any child who came into her life. Her home was filled with laughter and love, and many children affectionately called her "Mama Maple" or "TT Maple."
Maple lived life with a passion and a heart of gold. She was a true embodiment of Christian values, always striving to do God's work on Earth. Her life was celebrated through the words of Matthew 25:21: "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."
Maple departed this life on September 27, 2025, at home, surrounded by family and friends, just as she would have wanted. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Barbara Hall, Harvey Rolan, Eleanor Riley, and James Riley; her father, Eugene Riley; aunts, Michelle Williams, Felicia Riley, and Annette Rowan; uncles, Clarence Riley, Marchand Rolan, and Michael Rolan; and her nephew, Kemon Rolan.
Maple leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her three sons: NiJay, Jamari, and Armon; her mother, Milissa Rolan; seven sisters, LeRithea Rolan, her twin, April Rolan-Andrews (Antoine), Arlene Rolan, Alisha Rolan, Deidra Rolan, Catrina Haynes-Davis (Andre), Adrienne Watson (James); five brothers; Javon Rolan, Trevon Rolan, Keith Wright, Kenneth Wright, Xavier Riley; five grandchildren: Nizari, Rilynn, Zae-Mere, Nizear, and Future; two special grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and a community of friends and godchildren.
Maple will be remembered for her contagious smile, her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith. Her spirit will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.
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