Rolland Du-Val Funkhouser

Rolland Du-Val “Ron” Funkhouser, 88, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026, in Brooksville, Florida. Born on September 7, 1937, in Wytheville, Virginia, Ron lived a full and vibrant life marked by dedication to family, education, faith, and a lifelong love of sports.

Ron attended Harrisonburg High School in Virginia before pursuing higher education at the University of South Florida, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education. His passion for teaching and coaching led him to a fulfilling career at Gulf High School and later Hudson High School, where he left a lasting impact on countless students and athletes.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Ron is survived by his beloved wife Sandra Funkhouser; his children Renee Seal, Scott Funkhouser (Melody), and Kimberly LaPenna; and his grandchildren Rolland Funkhouser III (Erica), Kyle Funkhouser (Jen), Cherie Funkhouser Bates (Chris), Stephen Seal II (Corrie), Michael Seal (Lisa), Bradley Funkhouser (Samantha), Zachary Funkhouser (Madison), Kevin Funkhouser, Shirley Funkhouser, Katya Funkhouser, Eric Cannon, and Holley Smith (Jay). He also leaves behind 13 great-grandchildren and his brother Joseph Funkhouser (Sallie). He was preceded in death by his son Rolland Funkhouser II and his parents Cleadiece Funkhouser and Joseph K. Funkhouser.

Ron’s life was deeply rooted in faith. He was an active member of First United Methodist Church of Lutz where he once sang in the choir and taught Sunday school. His voice often filled the car with song during family drives- an endearing habit that brought joy to those around him.

Sports were a central part of Ron’s life. Whether playing or watching golf, football, or basketball- his favorite pastimes- he found joy in every game. A loyal fan with season tickets to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Bandits, and South Florida football and basketball teams, Ron rarely missed an opportunity to cheer from the stands. But perhaps nothing brought him more pride than watching his children and grandchildren compete in their own athletic pursuits. He shared his love for golf with them all- teaching any who wanted to learn how to play- and would have happily lived on the golf course if given the chance.

Known for his dry wit and playful spirit, Ron has a unique way of connecting with people- even if he couldn’t always remember their names. In such cases everyone became “Buford” or “Beulah” much to the amusement of those around him. His humor was ever-present; he delighted in making others laugh and never hesitated to share a joke or light-hearted comment.

A kid at heart himself, one of Ron’s favorite places to visit was Walt Disney World- a place that reflected his enduring sense of wonder and fun.

Ron Du-Val Funkhouser will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to family and faith, his passion for teaching and coaching, his love of sports- especially golf- and most of all for the laughter he brought into so many lives. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held on January 24, 2026, from 2:00PM to 5:00PM at the home of Rolland Funkhouser III.