With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Mr. Ethan Rollerson of North Charleston, South Carolina, who peacefully entered into eternal rest on Thursday, October 15, 2026, in North Charleston, South Carolina. Ethan was a gifted artist, a dedicated educator, a passionate historian, and a cherished member of the community whose life was defined by creativity, knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to inspiring others. Through his artistry, his teaching, and his deep appreciation for the history and cultural heritage of the South Carolina Lowcountry, Ethan touched countless lives and leaves behind a legacy that will continue to speak long after his departure.

For Ethan, art was more than a talent—it was a calling. A master artist with a remarkable eye for beauty and detail, he found meaning in every image, color, and blank canvas. His work reflected both his creative gifts and his appreciation for the stories, traditions, and experiences that shape our lives. Through batik, he expressed his imagination with patience, skill, and a distinctive vision. Yet one of his greatest gifts was sharing that passion with others. Ethan understood that art was not merely to be admired, but to be experienced, explored, and passed on to future generations.

A proud 1979 graduate of Macedonia High School, Ethan continued his education at the University of South Carolina, where he majored in Art and Education. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Arts and Education, with minors in English and Art History. His thirst for knowledge and deeper understanding of the arts led him back to the University of South Carolina in the fall of 1983, where he enrolled in graduate school to study Art History, concentrating on Renaissance painting. During his time at USC, he was an active member of the Association of African American Students and the Art Students League. These experiences further cultivated his appreciation for artistic expression, intellectual exploration, and the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural identity.

Ethan devoted numerous years of service to the Berkeley County School District, where he shared his knowledge, creativity, and love of learning with generations of students. He began his teaching career at Berkeley Middle School, where he laid the foundation for what would become a lasting impact on the educational community. In 1996, he became one of the Founding Four teachers at Timberland High School, helping establish an institution that would go on to serve countless students and families. At Timberland, Ethan served as the Visual Arts Instructor and Fine Arts Department Chairperson. His commitment to education extended well beyond the art classroom, as he also taught English 4, Algebra 1, and Western Civilization.

To call Ethan simply a teacher would not fully capture the depth of his influence. He was an artist who taught and a teacher who helped others discover the artist within themselves. He saw potential in every student, even before they recognized it in themselves. Through his guidance and encouragement, young people learned to explore their creativity, strengthen their abilities, and see the world from new perspectives. His classroom became more than a place to study art; it was a welcoming space where imagination flourished, individual expression was valued, and new possibilities emerged.

Ethan’s influence reached far beyond the classroom, living on in the students whose talents he nurtured, whose confidence he strengthened, and whose creativity he encouraged. Whatever paths they followed, each carries a part of his legacy. His dedication to inspiring others was matched by his passion for African American history in the South Carolina Lowcountry. Ethan viewed history not merely as dates and events, but as the stories of people, families, struggles, triumphs, and traditions worthy of remembrance. Through his art and historical interests, he honored the past while encouraging future generations to value their heritage and embrace their potential.

Ethan united art, education, and history in a life of lasting influence. His legacy lives not only in his artwork and teaching, but also in the minds he challenged, the imaginations he awakened, and the appreciation for art and history he inspired. Though deeply missed, his lessons and the beauty he created will endure.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory his siblings, Claflin Rollerson (Rudelle) and Veronica Rollerson; his sister-in-law, Ethel Rollerson; several aunts and an uncle; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends; his beloved Timberland High School family; and the countless students, colleagues, and members of the community whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

As we mourn Ethan Rollerson, we also celebrate a life devoted to creating beauty, sharing knowledge, preserving history, and awakening gifts in others. His greatest masterpieces are the lives he touched and the minds he inspired.

Though his hands have laid down their tools, his work continues in every student, artist, and remembered Lowcountry story. His legacy lives on in the possibilities he inspired.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later time. Please continue to visit the website for updates and additional information.

During this difficult time, we ask that you keep the Rollerson family in your thoughts and prayers. May they be surrounded by love, strengthened by the support of family and friends, and comforted by the cherished memories of a life that touched so many. As they navigate this tremendous loss, may they find peace, strength, and solace in knowing that Ethan’s legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.