Ronna Sue Rowlette's Obituary
Dr. Ronna Sue Rowlette, 83, of Tampa Florida, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Hospital. A celebration of life service will take place at Sunset Memorial Gardens on March 3, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.
Born in Chickasha, Oklahoma on July 26, 1942, Ronna earned her bachelor’s degree from Friends University in Wichita, Kansas followed by her PhD from The Union Institute in Cincinnati, Ohio. Following her education she was drawn to Tampa, Florida where she founded Rowlette Research Associates, Inc. in 1993.
For over 20 years, she worked as a strategist and consultant in both the public and private sectors. Formerly, she was Director of Research, Evaluation, and Information Technology at the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, Florida, and a Vice President of the Sterling Research Group.
Ronna joined the Baha’i Faith when she was a youth and spent the rest of her life devoted to being a Baha’i. She lived her life following the teachings of the Baha’i Faith working towards unity and the elimination of prejudice, helping others through small and large acts of service.
Devoted to her community groups, Ronna made it her mission to improve others' lives. Ronna will be most remembered for her abundant generosity of time, kindness and empathy. She shared her love of sewing by gifting quilts and other handmade items to others and shared her radiant joy to those around her. Friends and family will miss her greatly.
What’s your fondest memory of Ronna?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ronna?
Share a story where Ronna's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ronna you’ll never forget.
How did Ronna make you smile?

