Austin James Roland

Austin James Roland, 30, of Franklin, NC, passed away on June 28, 2025. He was born on October 7th, 1994, in Ocoee, Florida, to Rebecca Goldhawke and James Ivan Roland III.

Austin was a man who lived with purpose, love, and authenticity. From the moment he entered this world, his mom always said he was a special, beautiful soul — and he proved it every day of his life. His dad adored him beyond measure and was proud of the man he became.

Austin was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Barry Goldhawk (Austin’s beloved “Gang”), and his paternal grandfather, James Ivan Roland II (Austin’s cherished “Peeps”).

He leaves behind a family who loved him fiercely: his parents, James Ivan “Jim” Roland and Rebecca Goldhawke; his maternal grandmother, Mary Goldhawke; his paternal grandmother, Gretchen Thompson, and her husband, Ulay Thompson; his three precious sons, Lincoln James Roland, Baylor Kane Roland (with Jade Moore), and Beau Wyatt Roland (with Kimmie Hayman) — the greatest joys of his life. He is also survived by his brothers, Dalton Roland (Sydney) and Derek Roland (Debi); his aunt Elisa Johnson; his uncle Mark Goldhawk; his aunts Lori Swope (Jimmy) and Jan Roland Heckman (Mike); and a large circle of cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Austin was the best big brother Dalton could have ever asked for — steady, loyal, always watching out for him, and always someone he could depend on. His bond with his brothers was filled with shared laughter, strength, and memories that will never fade.

He was also the best friend anyone could ask for — loyal to a vault, dependable, and always there when you needed him. Austin loved fiercely all that he held close to his heart. He was the light in so many people’s eyes, so joyful, and brought a positive aura to every room he entered. He had the best sense of humor, loved to laugh, and truly enjoyed life. He was one of a kind and easy to love.

Austin’s hands told the story of a craftsman — strong, skilled, and capable of fixing anything. He took great pride in his work as a carpenter, pouring his heart into everything he built. His strength wasn’t just in his hands or his frame, but in his unwavering spirit and dedication. He always wanted to learn more, to grow, and to give his best to the people and work he loved.

He graduated from Franklin High School in 2013, where he played football with passion and heart, and attended Southwestern Community College. A true fan of the Florida Gators, Austin loved football, good food, and great music — especially his favorite band, Alice in Chains. His playlists were legendary, just like his laugh that could brighten the darkest day.

Austin was authentic to the core. He stood firm for what he believed in, spoke the truth with honesty, and lived life with optimism. He was the kind of man who would give the shirt off his back to help someone in need, who saw the good in others, and who made everyone around him feel seen and loved.

Most importantly, Austin was saved and accepted Jesus Christ into his heart. His faith was a source of strength, comfort, and hope that guided him through life.

Above all, Austin was a devoted father. The moments his sons were born were the happiest of his life, and everything he did was driven by the desire to be the best dad he could be. His love for them was boundless and will live on in their hearts forever.

Austin will be remembered for his big heart, his incredible strength, his gifted hands, his eagerness to learn, his loyalty, his authenticity, his faith, his joy, his sense of humor, and his contagious, beautiful smile. His spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched with his love, kindness, and light.

A celebration of Austin’s life will be held on July 3, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Ridgecrest Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.

Appalachian Funeral Services of Sylva, NC is assisting the family with arrangements.