In Loving Memory of My Uncle
My uncle was more than family to me—he was someone who shaped who I am in ways I’m still discovering. He had a way of seeing something in me before I could see it in myself, gently encouraging my love for the arts and reminding me that creativity mattered.
He carried himself with a quiet elegance and a deep appreciation for life’s beauty—the way he dressed, the places he went, the moments he made special. I’ll never forget when he took me to see The Phantom of the Opera. That night stayed with me. It opened my heart to something new, and from then on, I fell in love with musicals. That piece of me exists because of him.
One memory that I hold especially close is how he cared for my grandpa. I can still picture him picking him up, taking him out to beautiful restaurants, and treating him to desserts that brought him so much joy. It wasn’t just about the meals—it was the love, the effort, the way he made my grandpa feel special and cared for. That was who my uncle was.
Losing him leaves a space in my heart that can never be filled. I will miss his presence, his kindness, and the way he made life feel a little richer just by being in it. But I’m so deeply grateful for him—for the memories, for the love, and for the way he will always live on in me.
I love my Tito Roland, and I will miss him dearly. He will always be a part of who I am.

My Uncle Roland played a huge part in the man I am today. We both shared a passion for the finer things in life, and the Los Angeles Dodgers. 

During the summer of 2019, he and I happened to be in New York City at the same time. We shared an amazing night in the city I was falling in love with and that I learned, My Uncle had loved for a long time. I was fortunate to be able to give him a tour of the $30 million dollar super yacht I was living and working on in Chelsea. Afterwards, we bar hopped around NYC, visiting his favorite hotel bars and speakeasy’s, drinking and eating what had to be worth a fortune. 

We finished the night under the bright lights of Time Square. I remember thanking him for the amazing time and promising to buy him and Auntie Belle their own NYC apartment when I make my millions. As we parted ways, he slipped a $100 bill in my hand, gave me a wink and his unforgettable laugh as I tried to refuse. I will never forget the feeling I had that night. 

I know My Uncle Roland was my biggest fan and I was his.

As I reflect on fond memories of Roland, I must say that I feel so blessed to have known him for over 38 years and so appreciative that he was part of our family. 

Grief has a way of making you realize how precious time truly is. I wish I would have had more conversations with him and somehow let him know how grateful I am for his love and support for my children, our family and mostly for my sister, Belle. It truly means more than I could put into words. 

 Roland was always present in my children’s lives, the Uncle every child wishes they had, even a father figure to them…always wanting them to have wonderful experiences…even providing them those opportunities.

His acts of kindness, makes him so unforgettable, as well as his style from clothing to decorating, along with his knowledge of art, history, travel and just the coolest of everything…I was always in awe. He set a “high bar” and a standard for those around him to aspire to—and from my perspective, especially my kids. 

I had the privilege of being able to see the very special and loving relationship between he and my sister, Belle. He was the perfect partner for her, true soulmates. I am truly grateful for the manner in which Roland took such great, loving care of my sister Belle, supporting her in her business and in all aspects of life...He truly allowed her to shine. 

Roland was a true gentleman, and a man to look up to—no greater blessing for a family was he, and no greater compliment to the man he was. 

He will be greatly missed, well remembered, and always in our hearts! 

With love always! 
Susan Gartside-Cox

I will forever cherish my memories of my Uncle Roland. The most genuine and thoughtful person I know, grateful he was able to attend my wedding in June 2024. I will tell Shepherd how much of an amazing Uncle I had. Miss him already!

Being somewhat of a "newcomer" to the family, I did not have the honor or privilege of getting to know Roland really well, but in the numerous family get togethers that I was able to attend with Roland and Belle, I found in Roland, a person extremely easy to talk to and so knowledgeable on various subjects (how to make a great martini) as to confirm that I was in the presence of a wise, quiet, aristocratic and cherished individual that people would turn to for answers to simple or complex issues. I wish that I had been able to spend more time with he and Belle (a most wonderful sister-in-law), and that I had been able to get to know him better!  He will be sorely missed!  

With love and sincere condolences to Belle and family.., 
Bob Cox

Kuya Roland had a heart that was always turned toward others. From the very first time I met him, he struck me as someone genuinely welcoming—warm, approachable, and quick with a smile that instantly put you at ease. Being around him felt natural and comforting.

Some of my favorite memories with him are the simple ones that meant the most. I’ll never forget the nights he would pick me up from work, making sure I got home safely. Another moment I treasure is when he learned I was heading to Sweden for work and quietly gave me warm clothes, making sure I would be comfortable in the cold. Those acts of kindness stayed with me.

Kuya Roland had a truly giving heart. He understood, in the deepest way, what it meant to make a positive difference in someone else’s life. I am forever grateful for his generosity and care.

We miss you, Kuya Roland. May you rest in peace. We will see you again in heaven 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼❤️❤️❤️

Manang Belle, I want you to know that you share the same traits.  I pray that God will comfort you and give you peace in this moment.  May God bless you with good health always.  Love you Manang Belle… ❤️❤️❤️

June 25, 2011
These reaction videos of Tito Roland were taken on our wedding day. Playing these over, seeing him smile and laugh is truly something we will treasure forever. Priceless moments

April 29, 2025. Celebrating dad Nick’s bday with Tito Roland and Tita Belle

What I will always remember about you Roland is our mutual love of good food,
 Grace and I have always looked forward to sharing food with you and Belle. We will miss you.

I have known "ninong" Roland since i consider myself an adoptive "inaanak". This is because I would joke auntie Belle since my brother Paul is her godson. I first met ninong and instantly I felt the warmth of his generosity. He made my joke into reality by giving me an allen iverson jersey. That was my first original jersey so I would make sure to wear it everytime I play basketball in highschool. He even gave me $50!!!! That gesture simply shows how generous and giving he is. Thats why reading all the condolences saying how good of a man ninong Roland is gives me comfort. I know heaven gained another angel.  Rest in paradise "ninong" and always look down on auntie Belle. You lived a well and meaningful life and I know you touched so many lives, and for that, you will surely be missed...

To my dearest Tito Roland thank you for being the 'Santa' of my childhood and for the legendary generosity you showed me every single year. You made the world feel like a kinder, more magical place. Your thoughtful heart and the way you always looked out for us in your own ways will never be forgotten. Beyond the gifts, thank you for showing us the beauty of life through your amazing relationship with Tita Belle. We may not talk often but your presence and the way you and Tita Belle lived your lives were enough to show me  how to dream big. You may not know it but you have made an impact in my life. I'm still in my era where I'm fighting for my dreams and yes, it is not easy, it is hard. Nakakalungkot na hindi mo na maabutan when I become successful pero I will make sure I will achieve my dreams and you and Tita Belle have a contribution sa lahat. I know you will always be looking out for us. Hopefully one day, I'll make you proud.  Salamat, Tito Roland! Rest peacefully. You will be missed.

I remember uncle Roland as being very soft spoken. We talked a bit about writing when I visited California in 2022. He helped carry my luggage which, by the way, weighs a ton!!! I remember, he even complimented the way I dress. They took me to dinner: him, ninang Belle and auntie Bets. We had steak and pasta... I had such a great time then. 

Thank you, uncle Roland for the warmth and kindness. You will always be remembered. 💗 Tin

Roland… you are gone far too soon. You were the love of Ms. Belle’s life, and a true gentleman in every sense—gracious, thoughtful, and deeply knowledgeable on so many of life’s matters.

You carried yourself with quiet dignity—subdued, well-mannered, unassuming—and always with a warm smile that put others at ease. 

Thank you for the example you set in kindness, in social grace, and in the beautiful way you brought our family together with such care and generosity.

King and his cousins will always cherish the laughter and joy they shared with you as their Uncle. Those memories will live on.

You will be deeply missed.

I offer my prayers for all of us in the Family that we may find comfort and strength in this time of sorrow. May our love for one another carry us through, and may it bring us hope, peace, and healing in the days ahead.

OBITUARIO

Rolando J. Villanueva

8 enero, 1949 – 2 mayo, 2026

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