Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Rodney Joseph Rivers passed away peacefully at his home in Ocala, Florida, on November 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
A devoted educator, Rodney graduated from North Catholic High School in 1954 and LaSalle University in 1958. He spent over three decades inspiring young minds as a high school math teacher at Roxborough and Simon Gratz High Schools in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Conestoga High School in Berwyn. His passion for making math fun left a lasting impact on his students.
Rodney is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary Ellen (O’Donnell); sons, Rodney II (Crystal) of Reston, Virginia, Vincent (Kristina) of Wellesley, Massachusetts, and Steven (Billie) of Oxford, Florida; and grandchildren, Graden, Nolan, Amanda, Nadia, and Katherine. He took immense pride in his family’s accomplishments and delighted in sharing stories about their successes.
After calling West Chester, Pennsylvania, home for many years, Rodney and Mary Ellen retired to Florida in 2003 where he enjoyed not shoveling snow! There, he reveled in the sunshine and was fond of exercising in the pool. A skilled French cook, he continued to hone his culinary talents, whipping up delicious meals for family and friends.
An animal lover, Rodney had a special fondness for German shepherds, having raised 12
dogs over the years – sometimes with as many as three at a time. He was an avid college football and basketball fan. His enthusiastic cheering was heard throughout the neighborhood, often to the chagrin of his neighbors!
A private interment will be held by the family.
*All obituaries are submitted by family and friends of the deceased.
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