Roland Derek Handrop

Roland Derek Handrop passed away peacefully at home on October 21, 2025, at the age of 89.

Roland was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol Burgett Handrop; his son David Derek Handrop; and infant daughter, Ellen Diane Handrop.

He is survived by his devoted daughter, Lori Handrop Mendoza, and son-in-law Richard Mendoza; his cherished grandchildren, Taylor Mendoza Alphonso (Micah), Mason Mendoza, Mikah Mendoza and MacKenzie Mendoza; and one great-granddaughter Novah Alphonso and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his cousin, Gary Boutwell (Glenn), who was like a younger brother to him.

A Veteran of the United States Army, Roland served his country with honor and integrity. Following his military service, he enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a laboratory analyst at Kaiser Aluminum, later known as Calciner Industries, from which he retired in 2002.

Roland was a man of steadfast Christian faith and was a committed member of several Baptist congregations throughout his life. He faithfully served as a deacon, youth leader and on numerous committees at First Baptist Church of Arabi until hurricane Katrina. He continued his devotion to the church by serving at Woodland Park Baptist Church as a deacon and later joined Trinity Baptist Church where he was a current member.

Outside of his professional and spiritual commitments, Roland found great joy in spending time with family. He particularly enjoyed the travels, experiencing thrill rides, riding everything his grandchildren asked him whether it was go-carts, roller coasters or waterslides. He also enjoyed playing golf, shooting pool and was known for enthusiastic participation in ping-pong matches. But above all, he will be remembered for the unwavering values he lived by and passed down to his children and grandchildren – faith, integrity, kindness and humility.

Roland's legacy is one of service, devotion and love for his family, church and community.

Family and friends will be received at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, 2000 N. Morrison Blvd, Hammond, Louisiana on Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 9:30 am until the Funeral Service begins at 11:00 am.

Interment will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery in Hammond, Louisiana.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home and Crematory of Hammond and Ponchatoula. An on-line guest book is available at www.harrymckneely.com.