ROWLAND DAVID BROILES

Fort Worth, Texas - Rowland David Broiles, a Fort Worth attorney. whose landmark U.S. Supreme Court case helped open the legal profession to non-citizens and whose quiet generosity changed numerous lives, died August 3, 2025, at the age of 87.

Born in Fort Worth on February 23, 1938, David was remembered as a steadfast advocate for justice and a source of support for those striving to build better lives. His generosity often went unseen, yet it enabled people to earn degrees, start careers, buy their first homes, or regain stability in hard times. Many continued to draw strength from his belief in their potential long after the moment of need had passed.

David began his professional life in academia, earning a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Ohio State University and teaching at the University of Georgia while attending its law school. His commitment to principle emerged early; he lost his teaching position after burning a Confederate flag during a classroom discussion on Confederate Memorial Day. Completing his law degree at Yale, he began defending First Amendment rights, with his first jury trial involving demonstrators’ free speech.

His most celebrated legal victory came in 1973, when he served as co-counsel — and lead oral advocate — in the U.S. Supreme Court case In re Griffiths. In a 7–2 decision, the Court struck down Connecticut’s citizenship requirement for bar admission, opening the legal profession to qualified non-citizens and setting a precedent for other licensed professions. The ruling became a cornerstone in the fight for immigrant civil rights.

Over the decades, David earned a reputation for fierce advocacy and principled counsel, culminating in the Tarrant County Bar Association’s prestigious Blackstone Award in 2006, honoring his career-long commitment to ethical ideals, courage, and service to the profession.

Even into his 80s, David continued to advise on ongoing cases, offering sharp insight and mentorship to colleagues who valued both his legal acumen and dedication to justice. Once described by peers as a “stem-winding trial attorney” — a nod to his commanding, persuasive presence in the courtroom — he brought the same energy to his counsel long after leaving daily practice.

With his wife, Patty, David traveled widely, riding the Trans-Siberian Express across Russia and exploring the whole of India. These adventures reflected the same openness and engagement that marked his life.

David is survived by: Patty Broiles, his wife of 37 years; their children, Jim Broiles, Karin Cagle, Lisa Hoopaw, Paula Knowles, and Kathy Steinberg; eleven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held November 1, 2025, at Arts Fifth Avenue in Fort Worth. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Tarrant Area Food Bank.