Manteo, NC Remembers Celia Rollinson Meekins
It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of Celia Rollinson Meekins, who peacefully departed this life on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Spring Arbor of the Outer Banks. Born on October 28, 1944, in the vibrant Village of Buxton, Hatteras Island, Celia was the cherished eighth child in a large family, born to Robert Crisp Rollinson, Sr., and Patricia Williams Rollinson.
A Life Celebration Service
Given the impending weather challenges, Celia’s loved ones will hold a celebration of life service at the Twiford Colony Chapel in Manteo, scheduled for Saturday, August 10, 2024, at 11:00 AM. Following the service, everyone is invited to relax and reminisce with light refreshments at her family home located at 174 D Victor Meekins Road, Manteo, NC. Celia’s burial will take place at the Meekins Family Cemetery.
For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed at www.TwifordFH.com, so that friends and family can join from across the miles.
A Life Well-Lived
Celia’s life was one filled with passion, faith, and devotion to her community. Growing up in Buxton, she was actively involved in the Buxton Methodist Church. She participated in the children’s choir, engaged in Christmas programs, enjoyed Vacation Bible School, and nurtured friendships through Youth Fellowship while attending Cape Hatteras School.
Her teenage years brought her to Spindale, NC, where she became a beacon of positivity at Rutherfordton-Spindale Central High School. Celia’s charisma led her to win the title of Miss Carousel Princess in 1962 and later, she shone bright as the Miss Central High Homecoming Queen in 1963. Notably, she had the honor of attending the Carolinas Christmas Parade and Carousel luncheon, where Miss America 1962, Maria Beal Fletcher, was the guest of honor.
A Journey Through Fashion and Education
After high school, Celia enhanced her flair for fashion by enrolling in the Patricia Stevens Academy in Atlanta, Georgia. Following her studies in fashion design and professional modeling, she worked at the Davidson-Paxton department store, which would later evolve into Macy’s. Her charm earned her the nickname, “the Chevrolet Girl with the Atlanta Coca-Cola voice” while she worked at Thomason Chevrolet Co. in Thomasville.
Her heart for service led her to the Memorial United Methodist Church, where she played an active role as a Sunday School teacher and was a dedicated member of the United Methodist Women. Celia also embraced a fulfilling 28-year career in Primary Education, impacting countless young minds before retiring.
Community Engagement
Throughout her time in Thomasville, Celia was not just a teacher but also a community leader. She became a proud charter member of the North Carolina Jaycees and played an instrumental role in organizing the state’s delegation for the national Jaycees convention in San Diego. Celia also coached contestants in the Miss Thomasville Pageant, mentoring several young women who went on to succeed at the state level.
A Global Journey
Celia’s love story began when she met her husband, Roger P. Meekins, a chance encounter that blossomed into a beautiful marriage in September 2000. Shortly after, they embarked on a world tour that took them to Zambia, where Celia volunteered as a kindergarten teacher while Roger worked as an advisor. Together, they traveled across continents, creating cherished memories.
Upon settling in Manteo, Celia continued her dedication to community service, becoming involved in various organizations and causes she loved, including the Mount Olivet United Methodist Church and the Outer Banks Community Foundation.
A Lasting Legacy
In addition to her parents, Celia is predeceased by her husband and several siblings, but is lovingly remembered by her sister, Audrey R. Rollinson, along with many nephews, nieces, and cousins. To honor Celia’s generous spirit, contributions can be directed to Albemarle Home Care & Hospice, reflecting her lifelong commitment to kindness and care.
Celia will be missed dearly by her community and loved ones, but her impact and legacy live on in the memories and hearts of everyone who had the pleasure to know her. As we prepare to celebrate her life on August 10, let’s cherish those wonderful moments and carry her spirit within us.
Twiford Funeral Homes is assisting the family with arrangements, and anyone wishing to share memories or condolences can do so at www.TwifordFH.com.
