Roland ‘Ozzie’ Oswald, Sr.

December 4, 2025

After a life faithfully devoted to Christ, Roland “Ozzie” Oswald, Sr., age 85, of Beulah, Florida, was called home to be with the Lord on December 12, 2025.

Born January 16, 1940, Ozzie was the son of C Bonnie and Sallie Mae Bodiford Oswald. Raised in Gonzalez, Florida, his early life in a log cabin laid the foundation for the humility and strong work ethic he carried throughout his life.

Ozzie accepted the Lord as his Savior at a young age and was baptized in a river, marking the beginning of a life deeply rooted in Christian faith. With sincerity, wisdom, and grace, he lived his life in Christ, always striving to lead by example. Ozzie desired that everyone he encountered have the opportunity to know Christ; therefore, he lived out Christ’s Word to help grow the body of Christ. His faith guided every decision he made and every role he fulfilled—as a husband, father, grandfather, servant, and friend. He found joy in gardening, cattle farming in Beulah, watching Alabama football, and sharing a cup of coffee with those he loved.

Ozzie dedicated 40 years of loyal service to Monsanto, where he was respected for his integrity and hard work. Beyond his professional career, he gave generously of his time and leadership, volunteering for many years on the Board of Directors for Gulf Winds Credit Union with a special heart for community outreach, particularly the Manna Food Bank and the Council on Aging. In addition, he delighted in serving in a number of roles at both Beulah Baptist Church and Gonzalez Baptist Church.

Known for his faith, honesty, forgiveness, and steady presence, Ozzie’s greatest accomplishment and deepest pride was his family. Family gatherings were among his most cherished traditions, and he poured love, wisdom, and prayer into every generation. Ozzie leaves behind a legacy of truth, hard work, grace, and unwavering faith—a legacy that will continue to live on through those he loved and led by example.

Ozzie is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Terry McNaughton Oswald; his children, Sherry (Robert) DeWeese, Roland (Sheila) Oswald, Jr., and Rebecca (James) Ciccarelli; his sisters, Frances Crawford, Helen Jordan, and Linda Viita; and many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, C Bonnie and Sallie Mae Oswald; his parents-in-law, John and Grace McNaughton; his sisters Annie Mae “Sue” Gimbel, Burnis Godwin, and Geraldine Fillingim-Smith; his brothers Bob Oswald and Earl Oswald; and his grandson, Ryan Flowers.

A service will be held at Faith Chapel North on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Services will conclude at Dixonville Community Cemetery.

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Obituaries