Mary Ben Roland

Mary Ben Roland was born in Penfield, Georgia on September 9, 1934 to the late Bertha and John Grimes. Mary had seven siblings – 3 sisters and 3 brothers who preceded her in death. Her youngest brother, John Grimes, is still with us.

Mary only had a 5th grade education but she could definitely count money. Mary accepted Christ at a young age & was very active in church. During her 91 years of life, she was a member of Mt. Nebo Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Benson, singing in the choir & a member at Normal Park Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Vonadoor as the Pastor’s Nurse. After the death of Pastor Vonadoor, she became a member of Sweet Holy Spirit, under the leadership of Bishop Larry D. Trotter, where she was a proud and faithful member of the bench crew.

Mary married Fleming Roland (who preceded her in death) May, 1952 and to this union they had 8 children – 3 sons (Michael, Anthony, & Robert who preceded her in death0 and 5 daughters.

Mary leaves to cherish her memory daughters, Mary Ann, Catherine (Daryle), Alene (Willie), Betty and Lisa (Andre). Brother, John (Lauren), 28 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren, 12 great great grand children and her Godchildren, the Townsend family along with a host of relatives and friends.