Calhoun County, AL – The Calhoun County community is mourning the loss of Ken Rollins, a dedicated veteran, patriot, and tireless advocate for law enforcment and veterans’ rights. Rollins, whose life was marked by unwavering service, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of commitment, integrity, and compassion. Mr. Rollins passed away on Sunday, March 23rd at Bennie G Adkins Veterans Home in Enterprise.
Rollins was a Vietnam veteran who served his country with honor and pride. His impact reached far beyond his military service, as he dedicated himself to the betterment of his community. Whether through his work on the Alabama State Board of Veterans Affairs, the Centennial Wall Committee, and the Memorial Committee, Rollins was a driving force behind numerous initiatives aimed at honoring and supporting veterans. One of his most notable contributions was his instrumental role in the development of Centennial Memorial Park in Anniston, which stands as the state memorial for fallen service members.
Oxford Police Chief Bill Partridge reflected on Rollins’ passing, stating, “Our veterans and law enforcement officers lost their biggest advocate yesterday! Ken will be missed by many not only locally but statewide, and I lost a dear friend.”
Anniston Police Chief Nick Bowles echoed these sentiments, sharing, “Ken was a member of FOP Lodge 4 when I joined in 2000. I didn’t know anyone there, and he was one of the first ones to welcome me and make me feel comfortable being there. A friendship was born, and there was no request that I wouldn’t get done for him. He was a true supporter of the military, law enforcement, and Calhoun County. He will be missed.”
Calhoun County Circuit Clerk Kim McCarson emphasized the depth of Rollins’ impact, saying, “Ken Rollins was a beloved pillar of our community. He was known for his unwavering commitment to helping others. I have very few memories involving him that he was not a great part of our city. He was always serving. He was an extraordinary person, and he will always hold a very special place in my heart. I love Ken Rollins. I love, love, love him.”
Calhoun County Commissioner Lee Patterson also paid tribute, stating, “He reached out to the commission, especially when Eli was here, to help with the cause of veterans. We’ve lost a true soldier in Ken. He was the most patriotic person I’ve ever met.”
Former Calhoun County Commissioner J.D. Hess noted Rollins’ significant contributions, saying, “He worked extremely hard for veterans, and he’ll be hard to replace. The thing he organized on Veterans Day—I hope someone will continue it and keep his legacy going. He’ll be truly missed.”
James Bennett, leader of the Calhoun County Republican Party, remarked, “He was a driving force behind a lot of positive things regarding veterans and law enforcement. Especially those who have died in action. I’m just kind of in shock.”
Calhoun County Commissioner Carolyn Henderson expressed deep gratitude for Ken Rollins, highlighting his pivotal role in building the Veterans Memorial Wall at Anniston’s Centennial Memorial Park alongside her late husband, Eli. “If not for Ken, Eli could never have gotten the wall done. He jumped in, and they did everything they needed to do for the veterans. I think Ken would do anything he could for the entire county. He was a magnificent man, and I’ll miss him.”
Senator Keith Kelley also credited Rollins for his tireless efforts on behalf of veterans. “He was an advocate locally, but also at the state level as well. I think he was a champion for our veterans’ benefits and getting veterans the things that they needed. He was a veterans champion, a veteran himself, but he selflessly served to help his fellow veterans. Also those ceremonies mean so much to so many people, and they’re bigger than any one person.”
ALEA Board Member Henry Mullinax highlighted Rollins’ lifelong dedication to service, saying, “Ken fulfilled a mission in life to help his fellow man in any way he was ever requested or called. He served the community, the army, the state, the county, and his city. He was always there, always willing to offer a helping hand. We owe so many things to Ken Rollins for his service.”
Calhoun County Commissioner Terry Howell reflected on their long friendship and professional relationship, noting, “I met him 15 plus years ago. He was a very detailed person, and I appreciated that. He always wanted things done right. He was a tribute to veterans, law enforcement, fire, and police. He was a true gentleman.”
Ken Rollins’ passing is a profound loss to the community, but his legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the causes he championed. As we honor his memory, may we continue his work in support of veterans and public safety, ensuring that his impact remains a lasting force for good.
The funeral services for Rollins will be held at Harvest Church of God on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 5 p.m with a visitation from 3-5 p.m.
