Rodney James Whitley

December 14, 1954 - April 04, 2025

Rodney James Whitley, 70, of Pilot, Virginia, passed away peacefully at his home on April 4, 2025.

Rodney was born on December 14, 1954, in Red Cross, North Carolina, to William Buren Whitley and Velma Barbee Whitley. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy Saraske Whitley, and his parents.

Rodney’s greatest joy in life was his family. He made it a priority to stay connected with each of them, offering support, love, and encouragement whenever it was needed. His devotion to his wife, Nancy, was profound; her passing left an unfillable space in his heart, but his love and memory of her endured steadfastly.

He is survived by his children, Michael Whitley and his wife Madison; Melinda Lephew and her husband Cameron; and Daniel Whitley. Rodney also leaves behind four cherished grandchildren of which he was tirelessly proud: Lily Whitley, Nolan Lephew, Isabelle Lephew, and Miles Lephew.

A service to honor Rodney’s life will be held on April 26th at 11:00 a.m. at Floyd Baptist Church (510 E Main St, Floyd, VA). A reception will follow in the church’s fellowship hall, where family and friends are invited to gather and share memories.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society or Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Rodney will be remembered for his boundless desire to help those around him and most of all for his unwavering dedication to and love of family.

I loved him like a brother even though he was my uncle, I miss him very much. My prayers and Love go out to all his children

We are so sorry for your loss. We have many great memories of the soccer sidelines with Rodney and Nancy, watching our boys. You all are in our thoughts and prayers.

Remember Rodney as a kind and thoughtful man. Prayers for the family.

We are so sorry for your loss. Hubert and Rodney were lunch buddies and good friends working at NRI . You are in our thoughts and prayers.