David W. Rollins, affectionately known to all as "Red," age 85, of Duxbury, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026. A man with a "bigger than life" personality, Red was a cornerstone of his family and a beloved figure in the communities he called home. Born on May 13, 1940, in Brockton, MA, David was the son of William Rollins and Edith Nerney of North Easton. He grew up in North Attleboro, where he graduated from North Attleboro High School.

A true "Red Rocketeer" through and through, Dave was known from his earliest days as the ultimate jokester. Whether he was pulling pranks in the hallways of his high school or keeping his extended family in Easton laughing, his quick wit and infectious sense of humor were his trademarks. He truly never met a crowd he couldn't entertain and being center stage as the life of any party or celebration he attended.

David was the beloved husband of Ann (Petti) Rollins. Their 67-year marriage was a beautiful testament to devotion, partnership, and a shared life that spanned from their time in North Attleboro and Easton to their cherished "forever home" in Duxbury. He was the proud and loving father of: David W. Rollins Jr. and his wife Susan of Rehoboth,MA., Timothy Rollins and his late wife Karen of Chaleston, SC., Therese Robinson and her husband Bill of Plymouth, MA., and Daniel Rollins of Duxbury, MA.

Red's joy grew with each generation. He was the doting grandfather to Sarah Rollins,Christopher Rollins, Will Robinson, Shannon (Robinson) Goleski, Elli Rollins, and Maggie Rollins. He was also the proud great-grandfather to Crew and Summer Goleski. His extended family also included 6 half-siblings from his father's second marriage.

A graduate of Northeastern University's School of Engineering, David was a dedicated and highly skilled Quality Control Engineer. He was ISO 2000 Certified and a staunch follower of the principles of William E. Deming, whom he had the distinct honor of meeting at a seminar in Florida. Over his long career, David contributed his expertise to several notable companies, including 3M Company, Okonite Power & Cable, Leach & Garner, and Sylvania.

Red was an avid athlete and a lifelong sports enthusiast. In his younger years, he played in several fast-pitch softball leagues in the Brockton area and enjoyed basketball. However, his greatest sporting passion was golf, a game he played throughout his life. He was a steadfast New England sports fan of the Boston Red Sox, Celtics, and New England Patriots.

In Duxbury, Red was a local fixture. Whether he was clamming in Duxbury Bay, enjoying days on Duxbury Beach, Gardening or tending to his meticulous & famously weed-free lawn, David fully embraced the coastal lifestyle. He helped organize the famous neighborhood annual Lobster and Clam Chowder Block Party. Above all, Dave was a fantastic neighbor, always willing to lend a helping hand.

A Celebration of Life and a Memorial Golf Tournament in Red's honor will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Bartlett Funeral Home of Plymouth.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Red's legacy of generosity by paying it forward in his name. Please perform an act of kindness for someone in need, just as Dave would have done.