Community Mourns Philanthropist Suzanne Thomason Rowland

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Peaceful memorial garden symbolizing compassion and philanthropy.

News Summary

The Greenwood community is grieving the passing of Suzanne Thomason Rowland, an esteemed philanthropist and animal advocate. At 87, she left behind a legacy of kindness, dedication to animal rescue, and a love for horses. As a prominent figure in local philanthropy and a beloved member of the community, her contributions will be remembered by many. Funeral services are set for May 28, with family expressing gratitude for the support during her illness.

Greenwood, South Carolina – The community of Greenwood is mourning the loss of Suzanne Thomason Rowland, an 87-year-old philanthropist and passionate animal advocate, who passed away peacefully at her home on May 23, 2025.

Suzanne, the daughter of the late C.Y. Thomason Sr. and Aline Zimmerman Thomason, was born in Greenwood. She was a distinguished graduate of Greenwood High School, earning honors in 1955 before furthering her education at Converse College for two years. Her academic journey continued internationally, as she studied at the University of Mexico before obtaining her B.A. from the University of South Carolina in 1959. While in college, Suzanne was an active member of the Kappa Delta sorority.

Following her graduation, Suzanne applied her insights into human behavior while working in field psychology and later as a substitute school teacher. It was during a horse show in Lexington, Kentucky, that she met her husband, Vernon “Bud” Rowland Jr., marking the beginning of a close partnership built around their mutual love of horses. Suzanne, a champion saddlebred rider from her youth, also demonstrated her exceptional skills in horse racing as owner of a Steeplechase horse named Humus, which garnered recognition at the iconic Saratoga racetrack.

Aside from her equestrian pursuits, Suzanne devoted considerable time and energy to philanthropy and animal rescue. She served as the President of the Greenwood Humane Society, where her dedication to rescuing animals made a lasting impact. Additionally, she was a board member of the C.Y. Thomason, Sr. Foundation, which supports various local initiatives.

Suzanne’s interests extended to archaeology, where she actively participated in digs in Egypt and collaborated with renowned archaeologist Jim Michie in efforts to locate the lost home of Theodosia Burr Alston. Known for her introspective nature, Suzanne enjoyed reading and exploring historical contexts throughout her life.

She is survived by her three children: Brent Rowland and Bayne Rowland of Greenwood, and Paige Rowland (Michael Dietz) of Los Angeles, California. She also leaves behind four grandchildren: Evan Smith, Olivia Rowland, William Rowland, and Madison Dietz, as well as one great-grandchild, Karleigh Smith. Her brother, G. William Thomason (Nancy), also survives her. She was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon “Bud” Rowland Jr., and her brother, C.Y. “Bub” Thomason Jr..

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM on May 28, 2025, at Main Street United Methodist Church, officiated by Pastor Steve Keck. Following the service, a graveside service will take place at Edgewood Cemetery. Pallbearers for the ceremony will include Bill Foster, Sam Rowland, William Rowland, Mackenzie Tharpe, Tom Thomason, and John Bracknell.

The Rowland family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to Jamie Morgan and Evelyn Wilkerson for their support during Suzanne’s illness, as well as to the staff at Hospice and Palliative Care of the Piedmont for their compassionate care during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Main Street United Methodist Church, Hospice and Palliative Care of the Piedmont, or the Humane Society of Greenwood. Arrangements for the services are being handled by Harley Funeral Home and Crematory.

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