Lawrence Wayne "Joe" Rowland of Nederland, Texas died Thursday night, February 17, at home. He passed this life of 62 years peacefully and lovingly into the arms of His Heavenly Father surrounded by his family and his loving friend, Debbie Cherry. He was born in Nederland, Texas, March 25, 1942. Preceded in death by parents Clyde and Vera Rowland, sister Peggy Bush and brother Charles Rowland. He is survived by brother, Donald Rowland and wife Theresa, sisters Florence Pickering and husband Alvin, Charlene Hecht and husband Bill; 6 nieces and nephew, Donna Concienne, Rhonda Aquillard, Charles Rowland, Cheryl Lauderdale, Angela Pickering and Crista DuBois, 13 great nieces and nephews; Marcus and Monica Concienne, Dana Williams, Kayla Klein, Garrett, Kimberly, Allison, Aaron and Wade Aquillard, Julia Rose and Grant Rowland, Alexandrea and Mason Lauderdale, and one great, great niece Paige WIlliams. Joe is lovingly remember as one who loved everyone and called everyone friend. He extended his hand many times to people who were strangers and introduced himself, in the halting speech of a Downs Syndrome person. When one was feeling low, Joe would always put his arms around you, hug you, pat your back and say "It'll be all right." You could always count on receiving a "huge" smile and hug when he greeted you or big blue eyes sparkling as he planned or played a practical joke. one learned many lessons knowing Joe; patience, kindness, tolerance and how to give and receive unselfish love as he did. He trusted everyone and was a loyal friend and brother. God allows angels to come into our lives to minister, guide and teach us. Joe was truly one of these angels. Celebration of life services will be held at Pat Riley Funeral Home in Nederland, Texas Monday, February 21 at 10:30 AM with visitation on Sunday evening, February 20 from 4 to 8 PM. Reverend Frank Williams will be officiating. Pallbearers are Bill Hecht, Alvin Pickering, Donald Rowland, Charles Rowland, Grant Rowland, Kent, Garrett,