After more than seven decades a Baldwyn veteran’s remains will be returning to the United States mainland this week, and will be escorted back to Baldwyn later Tuesday afternoon. A gathering of family supporters and area residents is planned for a hero’s welcome.
A homecoming gathering is planned for the arrival of the casket bearing the remains of Army Pfc. Jimmy Rowland, who went missing in the Korean War in 1950 and was declared unrecoverable in 1956. Now, area residents are encouraged to gather around Waters Funeral Home in Baldwyn for a hero’s welcome in Rowland’s honor.
Rowland’s remains are expected to arrive at the Memphis International Airport around 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 11, where family members will be gathered to witness the arrival and transfer of Rowland’s casket. Afterward, Rowland’s casket will be escorted back to Waters Funeral Home in Baldwyn. Area residents are encouraged to begin gathering around Waters Funeral Home on North 2nd Street in Baldwyn around 6 p.m. The casket and Rowland’s family members are expected to arrive back in Baldwyn anywhere from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, depending upon several factors. While the weather shouldn’t be a problem in the Memphis area, airline delays due to COVID or weather in other parts of the country could impact the schedule. Traffic conditions in the Memphis area could also create some delays. The Baldwyn News will provide live updates on our Facebook page to keep area residents informed on the exact time of arrival.
Organizers plan to have American flags posted in the area around Waters Funeral Home as part of the homecoming celebration.
Visitation with the family will take place on Friday, January 14, 2022 at Waters Funeral Home in Baldwyn, with the full military funeral slated to begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 15. Rowland will be laid to rest at Asbury Cemetery.
