Image courtesy of United Way - Hastings Prince Edward.
Maurice Rollins has died at the age of 94.
The local entrepreneur, businessman and philanthropist passed away yesterday.
He was the founder of Journey’s motel chain, which later became known as the Comfort Inn.
His impact and legacy can be seen all over the region.
Rollins was a big supported of United Way – Hastings and Prince Edward. He created a campaign in 2008, that was renamed the Maurice Rollins Leadership Challenge for United Way Hastings Prince Edward, last year. Rollins would match new donations and over the years helped raise over $2 million.
Throughout the course of his life, he also continued to support many organizations including the Belleville General Hospital Foundation, Salvation Army and Enrichment Centre For Mental Health.
He also wrote a book called “The Incredible Journey of Maurice Rollins,” with proceeds going to the Canadian Mental Health Association.
In 2018, he was awarded the Ontario Medal For Good Citizenship. The second highest honour in the province.
While stories continued to be shared this morning, the City of Belleville has lowered the flag at City Hall.
Here is a statement from Belleville Mayor Mitch Panciuk.
“It is with deep sadness that we have learned of the passing of Maurice Rollins.
Maurice Rollins has touched the lives of many within our Quinte region. His story captures hearts
where ever it is told. As a young man who graduated from high school in the 1940s he became a
self-made millionaire through hard work and persistence – no formal training or education, just
pure determination.
His passion for construction began when he built a subdivision in Belleville and this project was the
gateway into an amazing career in the construction industry. He proceeded to build 9000 homes
and condos across the province and started a hotel chain called Journey’s End before getting into
the retirement home business.
Maurice’s grassroots start is loudly applauded but it is the imprint he and his wife Marilyn have
made as philanthropists that will never be forgotten. Their generous support of non-profits has
often been done unobtrusively behind the scenes. However, their Maurice Rollins Leadership
Challenge for the United Way has drawn regional attention as they have matched thousands of
donated dollars since 2008.
Throughout his life, Maurice openly discussed his struggle with mental health and has generously
donated to mental health causes.
Our quality of life as a community has been enriched because of Maurice and we deeply appreciate
the contributions he has made to our city. On behalf of Belleville City Council and the staff at City
Hall. I extend our deepest condolences to Maurice’s family. Our thoughts are with them in this time
of sorrow.”
Funeral arrangements have not been announced at this time.
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