In loving memory of
Rodney Rivers

• March 03, 1935
• -
• November 08, 2024

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Rodney Joseph Rivers, March 3, 1935 – November 8, 2024

Born in Philadelphia, PA, Rodney Joseph Rivers passed away peacefully
at his home in Ocala, FL, 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, PA, 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, VA, Vincent (Kristina) of
Wellesley, MA, and Steven (Billie) of Oxford, FL; 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, PA, 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. In lieu of flowers,
donations may be made in Rodney’s memory to Samaritan’s Purse https://samaritanspurse.org/memorial-page/rodney-rivers-ocala-fl  or a
charity of your choice.