Roland Linwood Pleasant was born October 11, 1921 in Richmond, Virginia to Linwood and Mary Pleasant. He was the oldest of 8 children. He spent the first five years of his life in Richmond Virginia until moving to Buffalo New York with his family. He then relocated to Jersey City where he graduated from Lincoln High School with honors. Roland relocated to Linden, New Jersey where he lived until his death. After graduating high school, Roland gained employment at the U.S. Postal Service. At the age of 22 Roland was drafted into the United States Army where he remained for three years (1943-1946), leaving as a World War II Army Veteran. In 1948 he joined the United States National Guard where he remained active until 1981 when he retired as a Chief Warrant Officer (CW4). Roland married Lorraine Smith and helped raise his stepson Ronnie from a young age. Later in life he met and married Willa (Billie) Pleasant and to this union a son was born, Kenneth Pleasant. Kenneth and his father were the best of friends. He taught Kenneth the meaning of hard work, commitment and dedication to family. Roland was known to his family as a provider. At the age of 11 Roland's world suddenly changed. The sudden death of his father forced him to take on the responsibility as the man of the house, providing financial and mental support to his family. Roland worked several jobs to help his mother maintain the household. This was all done while Roland still attended school. His commitment to his family was astonishing. He witnessed many struggles that his mother endured, and always vowed to stick by her no matter what. He honored that vow until his mother's death in August of 1953. His siblings respected him as a father and included him in many of their major life decisions as adults. To many people Roland had only one child but he was responsible for the upbringing of his siblings and his two stepsons. As an adult, Roland continued offering support to his siblings and their families if they were in need. He was dedicated to family. Roland was given Favor by God in all areas of his life because of his diligence towards caring for others. Roland was well known for being FRUGILE and saving a penny! Roland Pleasant will be remembered by his lengthy stories, honorable work ethic and weekly trips to Atlantic City. But most of all his commitment to FAMILY! He was predeceased by his parents: Linwood and Mary Pleasant. His ex-wife: Lorraine Smith. Stepson: Darrel Terry. His brother: Herman Pleasant. Sisters: Alma Rhodes, Hazel Carter, and Lois Duncan. He leaves to cherish his memory, his former wife, Willa (Billie) Pleasant); his son, Kenneth Pleasant and his stepson Ronnie Pleasant; three brothers, Melvin (Barbara), Scotch Plains NJ, Rudy (Elvira), Piscataway NJ and Joseph Pleasant, Woodbury NJ. This Online Memorial has been created to commemorate the life of Roland Linwood Pleasant. You are invited to add a Tribute in his memory. Please click "Sign Guestbook" below to add your own memories, reflections, thoughts or condolences.