Rodney Lee Croley

Rodney Lee Croley was born on May 24, 1939 in Williamsburg Ky. Rodney was the son of Carl and Orena West Croley. He graduated from Williamsburg High School in 1958 and Cumberland College in 1962. Rodney taught Government and History for 29 years at Goshen Local Schools in Goshen, Ohio. He married Joyce Sumpter on December 28, 1970. They lived in Blanchester, Ohio for 55 years.

Rodney was an avid woodsman. He was a hunter, fisherman and canoeist from an early age. Canoeing down the Cumberland River with his buddies became a rite of passage every spring, even after his marriage. He was a die-hard UK fan and came back to Williamsburg many times to cheer on the Williamsburg Yellow Jackets with his old school buddies.

Rodney took up Photography after he retired from teaching. He was known for his vast knowledge of trees and wildflowers and the local rivers of Whitley County, KY. He enjoyed competing in the Cumberland Falls Photography competition in April. He was pleased to have won many plaques for his photos. He was also proud to have several of his photos on display at the Corbin Center.

Rodney was known for his humor, card tricks and phenomenal eye-to-hand coordination. He was always looking for some place to throw a small object into a small space. His love of music for all types of genres was well known and he enjoyed making flash drives of music for friends.

Rodney passed away peacefully at home on February 15, 2025. Rodney was buried next to his parents in the Highland Park Cemetery in Williamsburg Ky on March 2, 2025. He leaves his loving wife Joyce, Cousin Kathy Byrd, In-laws Risa and Jim Wallace and Darrell Sumpter. Niece and Nephews Brandon and Holly Sumpter, Chelsie and Kenny Hornsby, Christie and Brian Wallace, Eddie Standring, Kevin and Stacey Standring. He also leaves a host of good friends and former students.