WHEREAS, Stephen Palwin Rowland, former Mayor of Glade Spring, who worked to support members of the community in need and enhance the quality of life of Southwest Virginia residents, died on May 29, 2015; and

WHEREAS, a native of Johnson City, Tennessee, Stephen Rowland graduated from Science Hill High School, where he was a standout athlete, and attended East Tennessee State University on a football scholarship; and

WHEREAS, desirous to be of service to his fellow residents, Stephen Rowland ran for and was elected Mayor of Glade Spring; he used his compassion, selflessness, and intelligence to strengthen the community; and

WHEREAS, Stephen Rowland also worked as a contractor and a salesman, as well as serving as the chair of the board of Highlands Community Services, where he worked with several civic and service organizations to ensure high-quality behavioral and mental health care in the region; and

WHEREAS, a man of deep and abiding faith, Stephen Rowland enjoyed fellowship and worship with the community as a member of the Church of New Beginnings in Glade Spring, combining his love of the Lord with his passion for singing on the praise team; and

WHEREAS, Stephen Rowland will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his wife of 38 years, Darlene; daughter, Sydney, and her family; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Delegates hereby note with great sadness the loss of Stephen Palwin Rowland, a respected public servant and devoted community leader; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Stephen Palwin Rowland as an expression of the House of Delegates' respect for his memory.