Karen Brantley Rowland

Karen Brantley Rowland, born December 2, 1946, in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025, at Piedmont Medical Center in Rock Hill, South Carolina at the age of 78. She lived in Kannapolis for 76 years. For the remaining 2 years of life she resided at Westminster Assisted Living in Rock Hill , South Carolina.

She was the cherished daughter of the late Woodrow and Ruth Brantley, and sister to Allen Brantley. Karen was a proud mother, grandmother, and friend, known for her warmth, grace, and unwavering love for her family.

Karen is survived by her former husband, Terry Rowland, and her two children: Kim White (Kevin) and Derek Rowland (Barbie). She was the proud and loving grandmother to Lindsey Searcy(Carson), Cassie Norton (Will), Carson Rowland, and Brantley Rowland—each of whom she adored and spoke of with great pride. Her grandchildren were the source of her greatest happiness. She was also a loving mother to her cherished Waldo, her beloved maltipoo.

Karen dedicated over 20 years of her professional life to the Social Security Administration. Later in life, she worked at the Spectrum Discovery Center at the Research Center in Kannapolis.

She loved traveling, especially with family, and treasured trips to the beach, cruises, and vacations to Disney World. In her younger years, she was actively involved in fitness and wellness activities, often surrounded by a close-knit circle of friends. Her friendships were a lasting source of joy, and she shared countless adventures and memories with the dear group of women she traveled with and visited regularly. She enjoyed being a member of the XI Beta Theta Sorority where she made lasting friendships.

Karen’s legacy is one of quiet strength, boundless love, and deep devotion to the people in her life. She leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a family that will forever be grateful for her unconditional support and laughter.

Her family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and caregivers at Westminster assisted living for their compassionate and dignified care they provided in her final years. Their kindness, patience and dedication brought comfort to her and her family.

The funeral service will be held at Whitley's Funeral Home Chapel in Kannapolis on Saturday August 9, 2025, beginning at 1:00 PM. Visitation will be from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.