Thomas "Tommy" Charles Roland

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas "Tommy" Roland, on April 7th. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather who touched the lives of many. Born December 10, 1954 in Washington DC to Leonard Roland and Ruth (Somers). He is survived by his wife of 42 years Joanne, son Chris Cornette (Cheryl) and precious granddaughters Kaitlyn and Kelsey, who he adored. Sister Kathleen Norstrude (Eddie), Brother-in-law Chuck Kerkes (Marcia) and many friends. Growing up, in what was then a rural Southern Prince George County, much of Tom's childhood was spent exploring the forest and Potomac River shoreline that has now become National Harbor. After several years of Estuarine Science Study, Tom changed his major to Outdoor Recreation earning his degree from University of Maryland. This kept him engaged in his nature-related interests. After a few years working for MD-National Parks and Planning, in 1978 he began his 38-year career with Charles County. During Tom's tenure as Parks Director the County Park system grew from 867 acres to now over 4,000 acres and from 8 to 31 parks. Through community, non-profit, State and Federal Partnerships, Tom has played a role in preserving open space throughout Charles County. Some of the more notable acquisition projects include: The Indian Head Rail Trail, Friendship Farm Park, Maxwell Hall, Mallows Bay, La Plata Farm Park, Port Tobacco River Park and the corridor that will eventually become the Popes Creek Rail Trail. He was an innovator, some of the projects he was proud of were Indian Head Rail Trail, Disc Golf Course at Turkey Hill, Skate Park and numerous dog parks. Early in his career he started the Charles County Dart League, eventually being inducted into the National Dart Hall of Fame. Tom as the recipient of The Bureau of Land Management's 4-C's Award for outstanding Natural Resource Planning and the Maryland Governor's Citation for outstanding service related to development and operation of Charles County’s Park system. Tom was recognized by the Mallow's Bay National Marine Sanctuary Steering Committee for his efforts in preserving and promoting Mallow's Bay. He received the Volunteer of the Year award from the Potomac Riverways Network for his efforts in water testing in the Port Tobacco River and the Heritage Award from the Charles County Conservancy. Tom was a loving husband, known for his dry humor. He was an athlete playing baseball and basketball starting in High School and later at Charles County Community College, eventually playing softball in Southern Maryland. Tom's life was a testament to the power of kindness, compassion and a love for the outdoors. A celebration of Life will be held on April 19, 2025 at Raymond Funeral Home in La Plata. In lieu of flowers Tom requested donations to: Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation www.curemeso.org/donate Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization 1525 Aviation Blvd., Suite 318 Redondo Beach, CA 90278 Every 13 minutes an American die from Asbestos

Thomas "Tommy" Charles Roland

December 10, 1954 - April 7, 2025