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Woody was a man of deep kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering love for his family.

William Woodrow Rowland Jr., lovingly known as Woody, passed away on September 12, 2026, at his home in Townville, surrounded by his children. He was born on May 1, 1947, in Greenville, South Carolina, and will be remembered as a man of deep kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering love for his family.

Woody attended Parker High School and went on to build a long career as a mechanic. He worked for Yeargin, Merita, and Wilson Trucking, where he later retired. He was a man who enjoyed working with his hands and took pride in a job well done.  Woody was a man of faith.  Devoted to God all the days of his life.  Those who knew him will remember the gentle, generous spirit that defined him. He was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back, a true gentle giant whose kindness left a lasting mark on the people around him.

He had a lifelong love for cars and especially enjoyed car shows and going to races. Among the things that brought him great pride were renovating an old school and making it a home, as well as his 1939 Chevy coupe. These passions reflected both his creativity and his appreciation for craftsmanship, history, and the simple joy of sharing what he loved with others.

Above all, Woody loved his family. His life was enriched by the people he held closest, and his memory will live on in the many lives he touched with his warmth and devotion.

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He was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back, a true gentle giant whose kindness left a lasting mark on the people around him.

He is survived by his son, William “Billy” Woodrow Rowland III (Rhonda) and daughter, Anastacia-Staci Durst (Larry). He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Christopher Durst (Oliva), Kimberly McPeters (McKenley), Kyler Durst (Hannah), and Chandler Durst (Ashely). His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Bentley Durst, Rivelynn Durst, Riley Durst, KJ Durst, Kylen Wilson, Charlee McPeters, and Zane McPeters, and many nieces and nephews, each of whom was part of the family he cherished so dearly.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Brenda Rowland; his father, William Woodrow “Bill” Rowland Sr.; his mother, Helen Rowland; and his sister, Linda Goforth. Their memories remained with him throughout his life, and now they are reunited.

Family and friends are invited to honor Woody’s life on Monday, September 21, 2026, at Graceland Mortuary, 4814 White Horse Rd, Greenville, SC 29611. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Graceland Cemetery West, 4814 White Horse Road, Greenville, SC 29611.

Woody will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his loving heart, his steady presence, and the many ways he made life better for those around him. His family and friends carry forward the memory of a man who loved well, worked hard, and found joy in both family and the open road to the next race.