The Vero Beach and Indian River County communities are coming together to honor the memories of several cherished local residents who recently passed away. These individuals left lasting impacts on the Treasure Coast through their dedication to education, healthcare, local business, and their families. Arrangements for all the following residents have been entrusted to the Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory in Vero Beach.
The Vero Beach and Sebastian communities mourn the loss of five distinguished residents this April, remembering their decades of service in education, healthcare, finance, hospitality, and family devotion.
Roberta “Bobbie” Wimsatt Donelson, 65
Passing away on March 18, 2026, in Sebastian, Roberta Donelson leaves behind a profound legacy in local education. She retired from the School District of Indian River County after 16 years of service, having previously taught in Osceola County. Overcoming personal learning disabilities, Donelson was honored as Teacher of the Year and became a recognized county and state expert in literacy training. She also co-authored a national guide focused on implementing system changes in schools. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for May 2, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at The Garden Club of Indian River County.
Gloria C. Farino, 98
Gloria C. Farino passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026. A true fashionista known for her love of hosting, she shared 76 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Tony. Farino was deeply devoted to her family traditions, especially her beloved Christmas Eve celebration where she would prepare the traditional Seven Fishes. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, and the family requests memorial contributions be directed to the VNA Hospice House located on 37th Street in Vero Beach.
Debora Elizabeth Holmes, 67
Debora Holmes, who passed away on March 30, 2026, was a pillar of strength for her family and colleagues. Relocating to Vero Beach from New York, she dedicated over 25 years to her career at the Grove Place Surgery Center. Displaying extraordinary perseverance, she continued to work full-time even after a 2024 diagnosis of stage 4 metastatic lung cancer. In accordance with her wishes, there will be no formal service. Her family kindly requests donations in her memory be made to the local Humane Society.
Thomas Joseph Rollando, 65
Thomas Rollando passed away at his Vero Beach home on April 7, 2026. A graduate of Purdue University and the Wharton School of Business, Rollando began his career as an aerospace engineer before finding his true calling in portfolio management. He founded Warren Capital Management in Vero Beach alongside his business partner. Rollando was deeply respected for his lifelong pursuit of market knowledge and his profound dedication to providing for his family. A Celebration of Life will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home, preceded and followed by visitation hours.
Lawrence Daniel Smith, 83
Passing away on April 2, 2026, Lawrence Smith was a respected professional in the hospitality sector, spending the majority of his career as the Food & Beverage Director at Miami Jai-Alai. Known for his selflessness, he devoted his later years to caring for his elderly mother. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 20, 2026, at St. Helen’s Catholic Church in Vero Beach, honoring a life marked by loyalty and a love for simple family pleasures.
Memorial Information & Local Services:
- The Garden Club of Indian River County will host the service for Roberta Donelson.
- St. Helen’s Catholic Church will hold the Mass for Lawrence Smith.
- Donations for Gloria Farino can be made to the local VNA Hospice House.
- Donations for Debora Holmes are encouraged for the Humane Society.
