Roland "Papa" Marlow

Roland Henry Marlow, lovingly known by many as “Papa”, went Home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, June 27, 2026, surrounded by his devoted family. His journey began in Edgecombe County on November 15, 1941, the oldest son born to Vester and Ola Clewis Marlow.

Roland was raised in Edgecombe County as part of a large, loving family where he grew to become a devoted son, brother, uncle, father and Papa. His family instilled in him the importance of Jesus, family values and a dedication to strong work ethics.

He was a skilled carpenter and worked for many years perfecting his trade. He worked at M.O. Blount, Longs Manufacturing and Elton Gatewood where he made lifelong friendships and connections. Most recently, he worked at County Waste in Tarboro where he quickly became a friendly face and listening ear to the visiting patrons. Roland was a hardworking man who often put his own needs aside for his family to make sure they never went without.

In his free time, Roland especially enjoyed many hobbies that allowed him to be outdoors, enjoying God’s creations. An avid turkey hunter, he often invited family and friends to join him. He also enjoyed fishing and woodworking, never one to sit still for too long. Though we will miss him greatly, we rejoice in knowing that he is face to face with his Savior and surrounded by his loved ones who passed before him.

He was reunited in Heaven with his parents, Vester and Ola Marlow; daughter, Denise “Neecy” Carson; sisters, Ester Pylant and Janice Marlow; grandson, Chadwick Wetherington; nephews, Daniel Marlow and James Tripp and son-in-law, Donald Davis.

Roland’s legacy will be carried on by his children, Chan Marlow (Ronda) of Scotland Neck, Bonni Davis of Tarboro and Beth Green (Brian) of Macclesfield; siblings, Ada Brixhoff (Paul) of Santee, SC, Frances Weatherburn (Carl) of Norfolk, VA, Patricia Dobbins (Bobby) of Santee, SC and brother, Bill Marlow (Jill) of Greenville; special brother-in-law, Johnny Pylant; son-in-law, Joe Carson; canine best friend, Kilo; along with several nieces, nephews, family friends and other extended relatives.

Papa especially adored his grandchildren, Zachary, Gabriel, Madison, Duke, Heather, Kaylynn, Nathan, Danny, Roxanne, Masey, Michael and Shannon and his twenty great-grandchildren.

A service to honor God and celebrate Roland’s wonderful life will be held at 7:00pm on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at Tarboro Church of God, 908 W. St. James Street, Tarboro, NC 27886. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 6:00pm and other times at the home. A service of committal will be held at 10:00am on Friday, July 3, 2026 at Bethel Cemetery.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude and thanks to his many special caregivers, Chan, Ronda, Bonni, Beth, Roxanne and Johnny Creech.