It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce and share the passing of Keith Rowlands, who left us on the 18th of March 2026.
Keith was a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, and colleague.
He lived life in his own unmistakable way, and will be fondly remembered for his deep love for KISS and rock music that echoed his spirit - bold, loud, and unapologetically himself. His passion for cars especially his capri’s and trans am, his black sunglasses, and his signature black bandana were more than just style; they were part of who he was - unique, expressive, and unforgettable.
Those who knew Keith will remember his character, his individuality, and the way he connected with people in his own genuine way. He leaves behind memories that will be held onto tightly and stories that will be told for years to come.
A funeral service to honour Keith’s life will be held at 14:30 at Gedling Crematorium on the 15th May, Afterwards, all are warmly invited to continue celebrating his life at The Tree Tops on Mapperley Top at 15:30.
Keith will be deeply missed, always remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
A great send off for Keith , will miss you Keith
And our coffee get togethers with Bonnie and Ann, still can't believe it won't be the same without you.
Thanks for all the years of friendship and support you gave to me, gone too soon but never forgotten x
You handled Lymphoedema FAR better than I would have bro’..I have massive respect for you with that😎
Known keith for about 56 years, taken far to early, yet another friend/mate gone,he will be sadly missed
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Thank you for choosing to support St George's Hospital Charity in Keith's memory. Our thoughts are with Keith's family and friends during this difficult time.
Our thoughts are with all of Keith’s family. RIP Keith x
Rock on bud.
Stick to your guns. Not sure if that is one of Keith's favourite Bon Jovi songs but we certainly discussed the good years of that band and it is certainly apt. In a world of fakes,copycats and so called influencers Keith was an individual. He did it his way. Many seek to be part of trends,groups or cliques. Not Keith. Yes he was part of the Nottingham rock music scene but within that he had his own way. Good. We weren't close but I knew him for a long time. In pubs, clubs and gigs he would always approach me,ask how I was and chat. This was particularly the case if he saw that I was on my own. Not everybody does that. We didn't always agree. Who does ? We had a right ding dong in a boozer in Wigan but it was soon forgotten as the night went on. His way may not have suited some at times but that is something for them to think about and that independent outlook always resonated with me. Keith was unique, authentic and genuine. That should be respected,considered and remembered. After covid I would see him for a while in Foremans bar and the Salutation Inn where we would chat about music, put the world to rights and (surprisingly) he gave me two albums by 80's band Go West ! Its not all about KISS you know ! Rest in peace mate. STICK TO YOUR GUNS.
Fabulous words Paul..I remember you..didn’t know you knew Keith like that..I like and respect your open honest thoughts and that is a great pic..getting Keith on camera like that was an art form😎
Photo of Keith and I at the Tap n Tumbler in between bands at a festival held at Rock City. No doubt discussing the various merits or otherwise of certain AOR bands. I could always rely on Keith for a very very honest opinion about music & other matters.
Lovely words mate.
Keith was very photo shy..catching him was an art in itself..a rare one here of him showing his Trans Am off
Keith...where to start? Like a few posts, there was good & bad, up's & downs and then some. Although we hadn't spoken for many years, I still smile about the good memories & escapades - a few of which you literally couldn't make up. The countless miles travelled to KISS concerts, instores, conventions, record fairs, etc.
It was good to have a quick chat late last year after so long, and I thank you for your kind words about my parents. When you mentioned your health problems, it did concern me. Sadly, I didn't think it would turn out as it has so soon after though.
Wherever you are now, I hope: You're fit and well, surrounded by pets & loved ones.
The roads are clear, petrol 40p a gallon and Capri "S" parts are plentiful. The Trans Am's are black '78 t roofs.
It's front row tickets for all concerts...that you already got some stuff signed by Eric & Ace...Most of all, I hope you're at peace. Rock on and rest easy.
My thoughts & condolences to Brian, Steven, Kath. Sheryl and to the extended Rowlands family.
I have nothing but great memories of Keith from watching Tyson fights with the boys in front room of the house. The Saturdays at the Cellar bar then on to the Tap. Watching bands at the Mardis Gras, Monsters of rock at Donnington. We had so much fun.
I remember wheelying down Gladstone Street with him on the back of my bike. Fanrastic times. A real nice guy a great friend a real shame life drifted us apart.
Thoughts and wishes to all his family and friends.
Keith could be hard work, but his passion for his music, Ford Capri and mint sweets was never bridged. We shared nights out and many videos and had lots of laughs along the way. Sadly missed all the best to his excellent family even Brian lol.
Spent many a night with Keith and my best friends paul and nick . Some funny stories heard from them boys . Sad to hear this news .
God gave rock and rock to him Rip Keith x
I don’t know you but that was a really beautiful thing to say about my brother🙏
I’ve lit a candle for you with love from mum and Robert xx
Keith..when it was good it was good..when it was bad it was sh#t..the bad got in the way too much and we lost too many years..you were you though, I couldn’t get past your my way or no way..I have a multitude of good memories though..you were my bro’, I loved you and did my best by you..life dealt you some pretty unfair cards and I have much admiration how you ploughed on regardless..you were misunderstood by so many but your often strange habits were not really your fault..rock in peace brother..go find Ace, Eric, Ozzy, Lemmy and all the other Gods and rock n roll all night and party every day
Nice well said
Photo of Keith and I at the Tap n Tumbler in between bands at a festival held at Rock City. No doubt discussing the various merits or otherwise of certain AOR bands. I could always rely on Keith for a very very honest opinion about music & other matters.
Keith was very photo shy..catching him was an art in itself..a rare one here of him showing his Trans Am off
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