Ronald Lewis Roland III passed unexpectedly on June 29, 2023 in the UPMC Harrisburg Hospital in Harrisburg, PA.

Ronald III, better known to his family as Baby Baby, made a fast and unexpected entrance into this world on May 8, 2023 at the gestational age of 24 weeks. He was one pound, four ounces at birth.

For nearly two months, Ronald III showed his family and medical staff that he was a fighter. He was considered a micro-premie and was the smallest baby on his floor. Despite his challenges, he made unbelievable strides over the course of seven weeks. He was weaned from his ventilator on June 21. He also hit the "two pound club" that very same day.

"There is no foot too small that it cannot leave an imprint on this world." -- Author Unknown

Baby Baby certainly left an imprint on his family. He was very affectionate and loved to hold onto his parents' fingers with a tight grip. He loved skin-to-skin time and following the sounds of his parents' voices. He engaged with his visitors and his family enjoyed when he gave them a comical side-eye from his crib.

Ronald III was able to be held by his mother for the first time on Mother's Day. His father was able to hold him for the first time on Father's Day.

A fan of his pacifier, he would also grab onto his medical tubing during procedures, earning him the hospital nickname of "The Helper."

He experienced many firsts, including a bath, a big cry, meeting both of his grandmothers and FaceTiming with his sister and his extended family.

Candace was so excited to be promoted to the role of big sister. She loved to watch videos of her little brother when her parents returned home from the hospital. "Less pictures, more videos," Candace would tell her parents.

Ronald III is survived by his loving parents, Charla S. and Ronald L. Roland, Jr. and his sister, Candace L. Roland. He is also survived by his maternal grandmother, Charlyn Sellers-Jones, paternal grandparents Jeri E. and Ronald L. Roland, Sr., in addition to many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Robert S. Jones.

Ronald III's birth was so anticipated by his family. During a gender reveal party in late April, his father literally jumped for joy when he saw the color blue. While they are heartbroken by his absence, they are comforted by the overwhelming support and prayers from their family, friends and their Devon Crest swim team "Swamily."

While not here physically, Baby Baby will remain a part of his family forever. They offer this promise. "As long as we can, we will look at this world for all of us. We will laugh. We will sing. We will pray. For all of us."

His life will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 12 at 12 noon at Grace Fellowship Church, 2415 Locust Lane, Harrisburg with visitation 11:30 a.m. until 12 Noon and burial in William Howard Day Cemetery, Steelton.