Rowland Thomas Eskridge, Sr., 88, of St. Marys, GA passed away on Monday, January 19, 2026, at his residence.

He was born in Darlington, South Carolina to the late Ribble and Mary Eskridge. Rowland was a lifeguard when he met the love of his life Dotty Fowler whom he married in 1959. He was a banker for 30 years at the then 1st National Bank, he was an appraiser, and served as Mayor of St. Marys, was also a city councilman, and a member of the Kiwanis Club, a Mason and a Shriner. He and Dotty were members of 1st Presbyterian Church and he also faithfully served his country as a Marine. Rowland and Dotty would ride through the community on their golf cart daily visiting with friends, they were each other's best friend. He was a loving, wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. Rowland loved to, and faithfully read his Bible every day, and could be found working in the yard on many occasions. He was well known and loved throughout the community and will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.

Rowland is preceded in death by his parents and a brother Ribble Eskridge.

He is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 66 years, Dorothy "Dotty" Eskridge, his three children Dana Ford, Faith Blecher, and Thomas Eskridge; six grandchildren Andrew Ford, Josh Ford and his wife Alexis, Tara Penland and her husband Adam, Taylor Blecher, Luci and Harley Eskridge; and a brother Frank Eskridge and his wife Jo.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 10:00 am at First Presbyterian Church in St. Marys.

Allison Memorial Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.