Rowand Robinson I

Thomas Rowand Robinson I, 78, of Charleston, died July 17, 2025. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 AM Friday, July 25, 2025 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 5 St. Teresa Drive, Charleston. The Rite of Committal will follow at St. Lawrence Cemetery, Huguenin Ave., Charleston. The family will receive friends between 4:00 and 6:00 PM Thursday at the James A. McAlister Funeral Home, 1620 Savannah Highway, Charleston.

Rowand was born in Charleston on December 5, 1946, the son of John William and Mary Murphy Robinson. He was a member of the Catholic faith, graduating from Bishop England High School in 1964. He was a devoted father, husband, son, brother, uncle, cousin, coworker, and friend. He spent the entirety of his life in Charleston, SC. North to him was North Charleston!

Much of Rowand's professional life was devoted to the Charleston Naval Shipyard (1966-1995), where he was respected for his integrity, work ethic, and deep loyalty to his colleagues. His years at the shipyard were marked by his commitment to quality, willingness to mentor others, and making a lasting impact on those around him. He retired when the closing of the shipyard was announced for 1996.

Rowand was an avid water skier, crabber/shrimper, and golfer and he spent many hours on the intracoastal waterway with his two sons. He was Poppey to his granddaughters, nieces and nephews, teaching many of them how to ski and the joy of spending time on the water.

Poppey was well known for entertaining all the children with his fishing booth set up in backyards, at the beach, and driveways supplied with toys and bringing joy to all who participated.

After "retirement", Rowand continued working at Transworld Electrical Contractors and Capital Electric to keep his body and mind active. He was a people person who was generous with his gifts and brought a smile and light to those he spent time with. He enjoyed his biweekly golfing with family and friends and loved to "shoot the breeze" at the 19th hole.

Rowand was a member of the Elks Lodge #242 and the Knights of Columbus #704 where he routinely volunteered for the Turkey Day Run. He also loved his Citadel Bulldogs where he worked the football gates for over 40 years; he was a proud supporter of his Clemson Tigers, and could be seen wearing orange for all occasions!

He is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Margaret Louise Canaday Robinson; his son, Thomas Rowand Robinson II (Kristen) of Milton, WI; three granddaughters: Kasten King Robinson Woodcock (Jeremy), Kylie Elizabeth Robinson (fiance David Kim), Kenna Ruyle Robinson; step-daughter Connie Black (Michael); two sisters, Mary "Betty" Robinson Ray of Callahan, FL, and Deborah Robinson Nelson (Tom) of Charleston; sister-in-law, Susan Hutto Robinson, and a multitude of nephews, nieces, cousins, and dear friends. In addition to his parents, Rowand was predeceased by his son, John Andrew Robinson (United States Army veteran); his two brothers: Sp4 John William Robinson, Jr. and Charles McCants Robinson (United States Army Veteran), and one brother-in-law, Hollis Robert Ray.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a favorite charity. Rowand's love of people, animals and so many worthwhile causes will help to guide you.

Arrangements by James A. McAlister, (843) 766-1365.