Chester Derwin Rowland

Chester Derwin Rowland, age 61, a lifelong native of Apalachicola, Florida, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, in Panama City, Florida. Born on April 27, 1964, Mr. Rowland was a dedicated and hardworking individual whose life was deeply intertwined with the waters of the Gulf Coast.

A graduate of Apalachicola High School, Chester's early career included various roles in construction. However, it was on the water that he truly found his calling. He spent the majority of his life as a commercial fisherman, specializing in oystering, shrimping, and fishing. 

Outside of his professional life, Chester was an avid hunter and fisherman, embracing the outdoors with enthusiasm. Above all, his favorite pastime was spending quality time with and caring for his beloved grandsons and a host of nieces and nephews.

Chester is survived by his mother, Louise Rowland, of Apalachicola, Florida; his wife of 32 years, Rose Rowland, also of Apalachicola; his daughter, Jackie Rowland, residing in Apalachicola; and his stepson, Robert Switzer, of Quincy, Florida. He is further survived by two brothers, Jeff Rowland and Victor Rowland (Lisa), and two sisters, Belinda Cassidy (Michael) and Amy Hersey (Matt), all of Apalachicola. His grandchildren, who held a special place in his heart, include RJ Switzer, Landon Switzer, Khayden Smith, Collin Smith, and Oakley Smith. Chester was preceded in death by his father, William C. Rowland.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time to 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time at First Assembly of God - Apalachicola and the funeral will begin at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Immediately following, interment will take place at Magnolia Cemetery in Apalachicola.