Roland James Baxter, age 88, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2026, leaving a legacy of resilience, hard work, and deep devotion to his family. He was born Roland James Morse on July 25, 1938, to Alice (Rousseau) and Carroll Morse. Following his mother’s passing when Roland was an infant, his siblings, Frank, Edward, Shirley, and Richard, grew up at St. Charles Children’s Home. As the youngest, Roland was blessed to be adopted by his godparents, Germaine and Everett Baxter, who raised him alongside his adoptive siblings, Charles "Charlie," Jeannie (Dumont), and James "Jimmy."

A proud 1956 graduate of Spaulding High School, Roland played football wearing number 75. Following graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving four years at Homestead Air Base in Florida. Upon returning home, he continued his love for the game of football. In 1961, he played semi-pro football as number 88 for the Tri-City Chargers.

On August 7, 1965, Roland married the love of his life, Muriel Ann (Gray). They shared 61 beautiful years together. He wholeheartedly embraced and raised her children, Jerry Brooks and Debbie (Brooks) Stanley, as his own. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Michelle Germaine (Baxter) Couch. Roland’s family grew to include 9 grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. Roland and Muriel enjoyed simple pleasures together, including camping in the White Mountains as well as hosting family holidays and gatherings. Their favorite time was at York Beach, Maine, where they spent their honeymoon, annual family vacations, and endless days walking the beach, soaking up the sun, and searching for sand dollars. Through these shared experiences, they instilled a deep sense of family and passed on many traditions to the entire family.

Roland was a man of immense work ethic. In his youth, he worked at Fay's Boat Yard, enjoying his time on Lake Winnipesaukee, and later worked at the foundry before starting his career at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. He started as an outside machinist in Shop 38. His leadership qualities led to a promotion into management, allowing him to retire at age 50 following 25 years of distinguished service. Never one to stay idle, he later worked part-time as a butcher at Arthur's Market where he enjoyed conversation and friendships with his co-workers and customers. He also treasured his time with friends at the Rochester Elks Lodge 1393, where he was a lifetime member for 44 years.

Roland was always a fun-loving man with a big laugh and friendly smile. He made easy conversation with friends and strangers alike and loved telling a good story. Always one to help others, he loved to ‘tinker’ and enjoyed doing DIY home projects.

Roland is survived by his beloved wife, Muriel; his daughter, Debbie Stanley; his daughter, Michelle Couch, and her husband, Patrick; and his large circle of grandchildren, step-grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He will also be missed by many nieces, nephews and family friends. Roland was predeceased by his parents and his siblings; his son and daughter-in-law, Jerry and Liz Brooks; and his son-in-law, Bill Stanley.

A time of visitation will be held 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 5, at R. M. Edgerly Funeral Home, 86 S. Main Street, Rochester, NH. A funeral service will immediately follow in the chapel. Burial with full military honors will take place at Rochester Cemetery following the services.