We, the Rowland-Russell family, are deeply saddened by the passing of our mother, Vera Marie Rowland. 

Vera, born on May 28, 1959, to Jean and Ambrose Rowland, in Washington, D.C. Both Ambrose and Jean proceeded Vera in death. When Vera was just 3 months old, she and her family moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Here, Vera went to catholic school for the primary years and graduated from Dobbins Tech High School in 1975. After graduating high school, Vera worked in various career fields.

In 1994, Vera changed career paths. She attended and graduated from James Martin Nursing School, receiving a degree as a Licensed Practical Nurse, following in her mother’s footsteps. Vera worked as a nurse in elder care but her passion was nurturing and teaching children. Vera owned and operated an in-home day care with her husband Keith. It serviced the children in the surrounding community, her niece, nephew and her granddaughters for over nearly two decades. 

In 1989, Vera met and later married Keith Russell Sr. Unfortunately, Big Keith, as we affectionately called him, passed in December of 2023.  

Vera leaves to mourn her children: Adrina, Keith, and Kenneth. She also leaves her siblings: two brothers, John (Renee) and Maurice (Saretta) and her sister Beverly Rowland.  Vera’s eldest brother, Eric “Ricky” Rowland proceeded her in death. 

Vera had a number of grandchildren left to mourn her absence ; Aneshia, Aliya, Trinity, Al-Amin, A’Isha and Yaminah. Lastly, there are two granddaughters that were near and dear to Vera’s heart: Kyla and Kaycee. They will, for sure, miss the day and night love, attention and overall interaction. 

Vera had nieces and nephews that will truly miss her: Lil’ Vera, Reginald, Tamara, Faith, Joy, Cassius, Jean, Dominick, Donavan and Aster. 

We will miss Vera’s presence however her memory is still in our heart and minds.