Dorene Lucille Rowland Hand, a loving mother, devoted grandmother, and passionate animal lover, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 09, 2025 at the age of 83. Born in Hackensack, New Jersey on February 15, 1941 to the late Robert Hanna Rowland and Anna Dursilla Edney Rowland. Dorene lived a life full of creativity, dedication, and kindness.

She is also predeceased by her brothers, Jack Rowland and Donald Thompson.

For over 20 years, she worked as a planner at The West Company in Millville, New Jersey where her hard work and attention to detail made a lasting impact. Beyond her professional life, Dorene was an entrepreneur at heart, running her own dollhouse shop with her best friend which was a reflection of her creativity and love for intricate craftsmanship. In July 2007 she moved to Kings Mountain, North Carolina to be closer to her daughter and new grandson. There she found a new life and friends at Macedonia Baptist Church, Kings Mountain, where she enjoyed spending time with friends and serving the community. Some of her hobbies included raising chickens, reading mystery books, cross stitch, cooking, antiquing and collecting horse collectibles.

Dorene had a deep love for animals, especially dogs, and over the years, she shared her home and heart with many faithful canine companions. Her love and care for them were just one of the many ways she showed her warmth and compassion to those around her.

She is survived by her daughter, Melissa Christiansen; grandson, Jacob Christansen; son, Steven Sassaman and Lisa Johnson; granddaughter, Courtney Sassaman; numerous other grandchildren; great-grandchildren.

She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at Macedonia Baptist Church, 1101 S Battleground Avenue, Kings Mountain, NC 28086 to honor her memory. Lunch will be held 2 hours prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Cleveland County Animal Shelter in Dorene's name, celebrating her lifelong love for dogs.

Robert Morgan Funeral and Cremation Service, LLC is honored to serve the Hand Family. Memorial tributes may be made at www.rsmorganfsl.com.