J.D. Rowland, 96, of Big Spring, departed this life to his heavenly home on Friday, March 14, 2014 in a local nursing home. Private graveside services were held last Saturday at Trinity Memorial Park. The service was officiated by Dr. Randy Cotton of Trinity Baptist Church. J.D. was born December 30, 1917 in Granbury, Texas. He was married to Albena \Bea\ Demicho July 31, 1937 in Big Spring. She preceded him in death February 19, 1997. He later married Evelyn Diggs and began his life with her and her family. Evelyn preceded him in death May 22, 2009. He is also preceded in death by one son, Ronnie Rowland; one daughter, Bonnie Walker; one granddaughter, Cheryl Mason; his parents, Murphy and Cardila (Hayworth) Rowland; two brothers; and five sisters. He was a member of Trinity Baptist Church and a member of Big Spring Masonic Lodge #1340, AF & AM. He owned Rowland Body Shop for many years. In the early years he played the fiddle with several area musical bands and at a number of functions at the Settles Hotel. He also enjoyed playing his fiddle in church to accompany church and gospel music.In his later years, J.D. and his wife Bea sold their home in Big Spring, purchased an Airstream trailer and traveled the county. There are special memories from their children of their parent’s stories about making new friends and J.D playing the fiddle with other musicians as they traveled. He is survived by one son, Joe Dan Rowland and wife, Carla of Horseshoe Bay; one daughter, Kay Myers and husband, John of Big Spring; six grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren; and two great great grandchildren. The family extends special gratitude to Mary Loya who toiled and cared alongside daughter Kay for J.D.’s needs in his last years. Also a special thanks to Crossroads Hospice who cared for many of his medical needs. The family suggests memorials be made to Trinity Baptist Church Building Fund in memory of J.D. Rowland, P.O. Box 1448, Big Spring, Texas 79721-1448. Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Big Spring. Online condolences may be made at: www.npwelch.com,
