Roland Cordell Gaddy

Mr. Roland Cordell Gaddy, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and faithful servant, was born on July 29, 1944, in Anson County, North Carolina, to the late William ArthurGaddy and Mossie Dockey Gaddy. On March 7, 2026, in Raleigh, North Carolina, he peacefully entered into eternal rest.

At an early age, Roland was baptized by Rev. Julius Little in the community of West Deep Creek in Wadesboro, North Carolina. As a young member of the church, he faithfully served in the choir and participated in various youth programs, establishing the spiritual foundation that would guide his life and cause him to commit to Christ as a young man.

Roland received his education in the Anson County public school system and graduated from West Deep Creek High School in 1961, where he was honored as the salutatorian of his graduating class. He later attended North Carolina College, now known as North Carolina Central University, studying Business Administration and Accounting. During his college years, Roland was drafted into military service by the Anson County Draft Commission and proudly served two years in the United States Army, including service in Germany, before returning to complete his education. Afterward, he began a distinguished professional career, dedicating more than 30 years of service to the State of North Carolina as an auditor, where he was respected for his integrity, diligence, and commitment to excellence.

On December 19, 1970, Roland married the love of his life, Ellen Jean Spivey. Their union was blessed with one daughter, and together they recently celebrated 55 years of marriage, a testament to their enduring love and commitment.

In 1984, Roland and Jean joined Martin Street Baptist Church, where Roland faithfully served the church community. For more than ten years he served as church treasurer, offering his time, leadership, and financial stewardship in support of the ministry. Roland also remained closely connected to his alma mater, serving as treasurer of the North Carolina Central University Alumni Association for many years.

Roland was preceded in death by his parents, William Arthur Gaddy and Mossie Dockey Gaddy, and by his brothers, Rembert Gaddy, Hubert Gaddy, James Gaddy, Robert Gaddy, and William Gaddy.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory his devoted wife, Ellen Jean Spivey Gaddy; his daughter, Camille Gaddy Burton and her husband Waymond; his grandson, Josiah and his wife Zara; and his granddaughter, Jadyn. He is also survived by his sisters, Carrie Mae Brock of Raleigh, North Carolina; Elaine Oden and her husband Richard of Schenectady, New York; and Cornelia Liles and her husband John of Lilesville, North Carolina, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

For family and friends who knew Roland, he was a fierce lover of Jean, a protector of his children, and the proud spoiler of his grandchildren. He would sacrifice anything for his family. He was always eager to serve—willing to help anyone, with anything, whether the need was small or great. And he was completely incapable of holding a grudge. His one-liners would come out of nowhere, and his dry humor could keep you laughing. He didn’t use a lot of words, but when he spoke, you leaned in to listen. The fruit of the Spirit was evident in his life—love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. And if you knew Roland, you know this is especially true: he was one of the most longsuffering people you will ever meet—truly an all-around laid-back man.

Roland’s life was defined by faith, integrity, and devotion to those he loved. His legacy will live on through the family he cherished, the lives he touched, and the example he set for all who knew him.

Funeral service at 12:00 noon Wednesday March 18, 2026 at Martin Street Baptist Church, 1001 E. Martin Street, Raleigh, NC preceded by an 11:30 AM visitation.  Interment will follow the service at Carolina Biblical Gardens.  Viewing from 2:00 - 7:00 PM  on Tuesday March 17, 2026 at Haywood Funeral Home.

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