Mary Ellen Rowland

Graveside services for Mary Ellen Rowland, 86, of Lufkin will be held Sunday, May 25, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. in the Garden of Memories Memorial Park with The Reverend Randall K. Green officiating.

Mary Ellen Rowland passed away peacefully Friday, May 23, 2025. She was born December 30, 1938 in Lufkin, Texas to the late Dr. W.L. and Alma Louise “Teenie” (Wright) O’Quinn.

After graduating from Lufkin High School, she attended and graduated from H. Sophie Newcomb College, now part of Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. While in college she met the love of her life, Dr. Whitman Peter “Pete” Rowland, on a blind date. They married and after college she taught school while Pete served in the U.S. Army. After his discharge they moved back to Lufkin.

Sports and animals played an important part of Mary Ellen’s life. She was an accomplished tennis player until she took up golf which she played almost daily for over 40 years. She had a kindness and great love for all animals, especially her many beloved dogs whom she loved and cared for throughout her life. Mary Ellen shared a special bond with her beloved dog, The Captain. The unwavering love and loyalty of The Captain is a testament to the deep connection and unconditional love that exists between humans and their animal companions.

Mary Ellen’s life was further enriched by her devoted friend and caregiver, Rhonda Doss, as well as her caring circle of friends. Their dedication and care were instrumental in ensuring Mary Ellen lived a life full of joy, warmth and fun!

Mary Ellen was a founding member of Christ Congregational Church where she enjoyed worshipping with many of her friends there.

Mary Ellen is survived by her two nieces, Ellen O’Quinn Sorrell and husband Ryan and Nancy O’Quinn Thomas, and numerous great and great-great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Whitman “Pete” Rowland; parents, Dr. W.L. and “Teenie” O’Quinn; sister, Ann O’Quinn Bynum; brother, Dr. William D. O’Quinn; sister-in-law, Flora Thames O’Quinn; nephew, Bill Tullett; and niece, Lisa Tullett.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Christ Congregational Church, 105 Saddle Creek Drive, Lufkin, Texas 75904 or the Winnie Berry Humane Society, 1102 N. John Redditt Drive, Lufkin, Texas 75904.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.