Obituary of Dr. Roland Lynn Kendrick

Dr. Roland Lynn Kendrick, 61, of Huddleston was called to tend the fields in Heaven on Sunday, November 27, 2016. Roland was preceded in death by his grandparents, James “Lynn” and Beulah Martin; Roland T. and Margaret Kendrick; mother, Shirlene Whitfield; father, Russell Kendrick and step-mother, Virginia Kendrick. Born April 6, 1955 to Russell T. Kendrick and Shirlene Whitfield Kendrick, Roland was a constant example of strength and courage to all that knew him. Although facing health challenges from an early age, he overcame those and quenched his thirst for knowledge by graduating with honors from Staunton River High School in 1973, attending Virginia Tech where in 1977 he earned a degree in Biology, and finally by earning a degree in Dentistry from VCU in 1981. One of his proudest accomplishments was that he paid his way through dental school by raising vegetables and operating the produce stand located on the family farm. In addition to farming, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling with his wife, Connie, whom he loved since the first time he saw her. Roland is survived by his wife, Connie; daughter, Heather Erb; son, Benny R. Saunders, Jr. and wife, Elizabeth; granddaughter, Macey Lynn who adored her Papa Doc; step-sisters, Michelle Franklin and Susan Boothe; step-brother, Johnny St. Clair; and numerous special friends. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 3, 2016 at Updike Funeral Chapel, Huddleston. In lieu of visitation prior to the service, friends and family are invited to the residence at “Granddaddy’s” following the service for visitation, a release of balloons in celebration of Roland’s life and stew prepared by special friends and family members. Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Huddleston.