William Roland Didlake

William Roland Didlake, known affectionately as Roland to his family and closest friends, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the home of his sister, at the age of 90. He was born on February 2, 1935, in Christ Church, Virginia, to the late Wiley Atwood Didlake and Mariah Sibley Didlake.

Roland dedicated his life to the creeks and rivers surrounding his home. He spent the majority of his career as a commercial waterman, a vocation he pursued with quiet passion and dedication, maintaining his license until his passing. His deep connection to the local waterways was the defining passion of his life, a testament to his strong spirit and independence.

In his youth, Roland briefly served in the United States Army. A man of Episcopal faith, he found great comfort and strength in his spiritual tradition.

Roland's final days were marked by profound peace and the unwavering presence of his family, who ensured his comfort and dignity were maintained until the very end.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Wiley and Mariah Didlake, and his younger brother, Garland Franklin Didlake.

Roland is survived by his devoted sister, Marguerite Garrett, and brother-in-law, Thomas A. Garrett, as well as his nieces, Arlene Croxton and Susan Wilson, and many cherished great nieces and nephews, all of whom will deeply miss his steadfast presence.

Services: To be determined

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association or simply take a quiet moment to reflect on the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, which Roland loved so well.

Faulkner Funeral Homes Bristow-Faulkner Chapel is assisting the family.