Rodney Murl Stanley

Rodney Murl Stanley, 74, of Chillicothe, passed away on September 15, 2025 at his residence following a brief illness. He was born on March 28, 1951, in Chillicothe, the son of the late Roy Bryan and Hattie Gail (Pence) Stanley. On November 17, 1972, he united in marriage with his beloved wife of almost 53 years, Debra J. "Debi" (Michael) Stanley, who survives.

Rodney is also survived by his daughter, Kasey Jo Stanley (Bruce Somich); siblings, Darrell Stanley, Dennis Stanley, Patrick Stanley, William "Bill" (Jane) Stanley, and Karen (Stanley) McKee; brother-in-law, James Richard Michael; longtime friend, Ron Murray; fur baby, Skippy; many nieces and nephews and numerous other friends.

In addition to his parents, Rodney was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Richard and Joan Michael; sisters-in-law, JoAnn Stanley and Jayne Stanley; and brother-in-law, Rick McKee.

Rodney was a 1969 graduate of Southeastern High School. He worked as an union carpenter for Divine Construction, of Columbus, for many years and was a member of the Carpenters Local Union #200. He loved and was loved by his coworkers and created lifelong relationships. He worked hard to provide for his wife and daughter.

He loved his home more than anything. He built it with his wife, Debi, in 1976. At home, he treasured his chickens, bird watching, gardening, and watching westerns. In his younger years, he hunted deer and went fishing. In his retirement, he loved taking long rides through Tar Hollow and Hocking Hills. His favorite trails were Ash Cave and Conkles Hollow that he and Debi could do together. He and Debi went to the lake (Rocky Fork) as much as possible to look for eagles, fish, and ride around on their pontoon boat. He was an avid NASCAR fan and enjoyed traveling to races with Debi in their motor home with all their NASCAR buddies. No matter what he did, Debi was by his side. They were best friends and took care of each other. He was a no nonsense kind of man who "said it like it is." He was stubborn but loved those closest to him.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at the HILL FUNERAL HOME, Kingston. At the service, the family is welcoming anyone who is wanting to stand up and share a memory, story or thought. Burial will follow in Hallsville Cemetery, Hallsville. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service at Hill's. Condolences and floral gifts can be made on Rodney's online tribute wall at www.hillfhkingston.com.