Roline Burgison was born in Providence, Rhode Island on the 29th of August 1962 to mother Alma Doris Upchurch and father Robert Burgison. She was the eldest of six children, having one brother – Robert., and four sisters: Robin, Dawn, Lisa and Barbara . Lisa and Barbara pre-deceased her.

Roline attended classes at Rhode Island College and was employed in varied roles. She was an all-rounder. When asked, she would assist, and beyond the call of duty. She genuinely cared for people – and wanted to support them. As a strong advocate for low-income families, communities of color and justice issues, Roline volunteered with the Direct Action for Rights and Equality (DARE) organization for several years – working hard to “be there” for those less fortunate. The organization later awarded Roline for her dedication. Roline was also employed by the Calvary Baptist church in transportation. She loved to drive and would transport youth to and from their after-school program, while also helping with activities there

Faith in Jesus Christ became the strongest thread that stitched Roline’s life together. She was a member of Gospel Tabernacle Outreach Ministries Inc (GTOMI), Providence, for over 30 years. She drove the church van, sang on the praise team and loved playing the tambourine. She was known as someone who had no doubt that God could do anything. As an encourager, she frequently sent uplifting text messages. Even when navigating her own health challenges, rather than focusing on her own needs, she would insist that those encouragement texts went out. She was a confidante and counselor - someone that listened keenly to their concerns and sentiments. She was fond of the songs: “I don’t mind waiting on the Lord,” and “I love you Jesus.” One favorite scripture was 1 Corinthians 10: 13. She wanted people to know her life was simply a testimony (of God’s faithfulness).

Roline loved her family - especially her grandkids - SO much, and her grandkids loved her! They had many different names for her: nanny, nana, grandma; she lit up every time she was with them. To her sister Robin, she was best friend. To her sister Dawn and brother Robert she was a second mother. To Roline’s children, she was a confidante and counselor. Aris, her eldest, recalls getting advice on even random things. He recalls everyone loved Roline…she made friends quickly. Micheal remembers his mom as joyful, with a beautiful smile and someone who went on random drives with her kids…no GPS needed; just love and fun. Kenneth (Kenny) remembers a mom that was very determined and strong. Her daughter Lawanda would agree that strength was Roline’s secret weapon despite going through a lot health wise; and that she was kind, wanted people to succeed, put others first a lot, made the best of the worst situations and still smiled about it.

Alongside joy, strength and faith in God, Roline was a peacemaker. She loved fishing, crocheting, church ministry, volunteering, quality time with family and friends and dressing up. She LOVED her plants and loved to journal. She was very expressive vocally; and champ at the game of backgammon. In all of it, she embodied that strong, fighting spirit, always smiling, always loving… compassionate.

On October 27, 2026, Roline Burgison went home to be with the Lord ...a place of ultimate peace…a place she could truly lay down the fight. A place many anticipate where there will be no more tears…no more death. She leaves to mourn her passing siblings Robin, Robert, and Dawn; children - Lawanda, Aris, Kenneth, Micheal; stepdaughter - Kenshell; 11 grandkids; 2 great grandkids – plus a host of nieces, nephews, cousins - other family, and many friends she welcomed with joy along the way.

Arrangements are in the care of Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St. Wakefield, RI 02879. Services will be held at the Gospel Tabernacle Outreach Ministries Inc (GTOMI), Oakland Avenue, Providence on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 11AM. A Viewing will precede the service at 10AM.