There are condolences waiting approval on Rollin's Tribute wall
Celebrating the life of Rollin Schwartz
Be the first to share your favorite memory, photo or story of
Rollin.
This memorial page is dedicated for family, friends and future generations to celebrate
the life of their loved one.
We ask on behalf of the family that you keep your comments uplifting and appropriate
to help all who come here to find comfort and healing.
Obituary for Rollin Schwartz
Remembering the Life & Legacy of Our Beloved
Saturday, July 2, 2016
ROLLIN SCHWARTZ
National Temple Baptist Church 1628 W. Master Street Philadelphia, PA 19121
Life Story Rollin Schwartz was born on June 6, 1923, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and passed away peacefully on June 20, 2016, at the age of 93. Roland, or “Buddy” as he was affectionately called by family and friends, was the oldest of nine children born to the late Thornel Schwartz and Ada Wesley Schwartz.
Buddy received his education from the Philadelphia Public School system and graduated from West Philadelphia High School in 1941. The previous year, in 1940 with German power growing in Europe, the United States inaugurated its first peacetime draft, the Selective Service and Training Act, which required males ages 18-65 to register and potentially be drafted into active duty. These circumstances led to Buddy being drafted into the United States Army to serve in the Second World War
Buddy served in the US Army from 1941-1945 in Germany during World War II. During this time of active duty, he achieved the rank of Spec 4 working diligently worked to protect and serve his country. Buddy received an honorable discharge in 1945. Buddy used his GI benefits to purchase a house, 653 N. Union Street that became the home for his parent and siblings. Family members still affectionately call it “the house” and often gather there to socialize. Upon entering civilian life, Buddy also began working at the Progressive Light Factory. He continued to work there until his retirement.
Buddy met his and soul mate, Flossie Satterwhite in 1951. They were married, after a wonderful courtship in 1956. Buddy cherished his wife, partner, and companion until her passing in 2001. In addition to his wife, Buddy also cherished his longtime companion and “man’s best friend”, Peanut his dog who preceded him in death.
Buddy was a faithful member of the National Temple Baptist Church for more than twenty years. He was active in church affairs and was a member of the Usher Ministry throughout his time there until precluded by his health. Buddy served the Lord and the congregation each Sunday with a smile as he “ushered” the congregation into the presence of Lord and to their seats.
Buddy loved automobiles, family, having a good time, and not necessarily in that order. Anyone who knew him can recall that he always kept his cars in pristine condition. Family, friends, and relationships were extremely important to Buddy. At gatherings for family and/or friends, you could count on him for hugs, expressions of love, and prayer. If the gathering included music, you could also be sure that Buddy would outlast the youngest person on the dance floor!
Several of Buddy’s siblings preceded him in death: Alice Schwartz Clark, Thornel Schwartz Jr., Marie Schwartz Green, Juanita Schwartz Holloway, and Leroy Schwartz. He leaves to cherish his life two sisters; Ramona Schwartz Fulton and Catherine Schwartz Carter; one brother, Bernard Schwartz; two sisters-in-law, Dr. Marcia Schwartz and Delores Schwartz; two brothers-in-law, David Green and James Clark; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relative and friends.
