Vernia Louise "Penny" Rollins Obituary (1957 - 2020)

Vernia Louise "Penny" Rollins, eldest daughter to the late Herman Thomas and Florence Lewis, was born on June 3, 1957. Penny, age 63, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 24, 2020 after bravely battling a brief illness. As a child, Penny, grew up in Hagerstown, MD. Just before her senior year of high school, Penny's father, the late Rev. Lewis, set forth on a new journey in ministry. The transition brought the family to Frederick, MD, where she remained until her death. Penny, a graduate of Frederick High School, was known to enjoy time at church and with friends and family. In 1977, Penny married the love of her life, Edward James Rollins Sr., and from their union two sons were born. Penny had a big heart and enjoyed caring for others. For more than twenty-five years she gave selflessly to those who needed care, compassion and understanding. Her most recent employment at Visiting Angels Assisted Living allowed her to continue to support and comfort the vulnerable. She was a dedicated caregiver throughout her life, both professionally and personally. Those who had the pleasure to know Penny, knew Penny was full of life and enjoyed giving joy to others. She had a listening ear and open heart. Part of the love she shared with others was through the gift of song. Her vocal and musical talents began early, as she was a pianist with the Lewis Sisters at Thomas Tabernacle. Throughout her life, Penny was famously known to call and serenate individuals on their birthday with a special song. This surely made you smile! Officially, First Lady Rollins sang and played piano for The Faith Gospel Singers, The Good Sisters and St. James AME Church. Sister Rollins served on various ministries including the Evangelist Board and the Care Ministry under Thomas Tabernacle. On Dec. 11, 1993, Penny joined the Holiness Ministers Wives and Widows Council where she served as devoted member of the Hospitality Committee. Penny is survived by her: beloved husband, Pastor Edward J. Rollins, Sr.; son, Edward J. Rollins, Jr.; daughter-in-law, Tawanda Rollins; granddaughter, Ashley Green; beloved niece, Lateres Smith; godson, Robert (RT) Ames; sisters, Evelyn (Clyde) and Linda (Bruce); brother, Edward (Kim); and in-laws, Norman (Carla), Eliza, Linda (Paul), Tommy (Veronica), Cathy, Brenda, and Ted Chambers. Penny will be sorely missed by a host of nieces, nephews and friends, including the deeply cherished relationships of Jeanette Leonard, Arnee Peterson, Dorie and Shaun Simmons, and Tyleet Sampson. Penny was preceded in death by her: son, Darrien Thomas; parents, Rev. Herman T. and Florence L. Lewis; and brother, Herman T. Lewis, Jr. Services will be held on Thurs., Dec. 31 at the Gary L. Rollins Funeral Home, 110 W. South St., Frederick, MD with viewing at 9 a.m., family only at 10:15 a.m. and funeral at 11 a.m. Due to COVID-19, funeral services are by invite only but may be viewed online at www.garylrollinsfuneralhome.com, where condolences may also be expressed. In lieu of flowers, please submit donations in her honor to Thomas Tabernacle Holiness Church.