Rodney F. Stocklin

Rodney Frank Stocklin, 81, was born on November 24, 1943, to the late Nellie and Mathias Stocklin at St. Ann’s Maternity Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. He attended Columbus Public Schools and graduated in 1962 from Linden McKinley High School. In 1964, he earned a Business Degree in Accounting from Columbus Business University. Rodney worked for the Ohio Department of Taxation for 30 years and received numerous recognitions for his service through the years as a stellar employee.

Rodney enjoyed his Cavies, especially his Guinea Pigs, which he named and entered in many shows. He also owned and won many ribbons for his Ayrshire Cows over decades. His dedication to helping others was one of his greatest qualities, as he was a longtime member of Courage Incorporated until they disbanded in 2007. He held many positions in Courage, starting as an Aide, then as a Board member, and finally as Treasurer. He gave his time, commitment, love, and leadership to all members, helping them enjoy a social life. Without individuals like Rodney, many who were handicapped would have never experienced social activities in their communities.

Courage Incorporated was established to get handicapped people acquainted with one another and to interest them in the welfare of others who may be less fortunate than themselves. The members dedicated themselves to giving, not getting. Such an attitude, we are convinced, results in genuine satisfaction and happiness for all concerned. Members were taught the purpose of positive thinking, to rise above their difficulties, and were persuaded to show others how it is done—not just by preaching but by leading by example. It was written and summed up in their constitution that the general purpose of Courage Incorporated was: AN ORGANIZATION DEDICATED TO THE CAUSE OF PROMOTING COURAGE, CONFIDENCE, AND COOPERATION AMONG HANDICAPPED PEOPLE.

Born deaf, Rodney learned to overcome his disability in life, work, and community in later years, his vision impairment required him to rely on the assistance of others. Rodney will be remembered for always sending a card or handwritten letter to friends on special occasions, and he loved Receiving them as well. He was dedicated and cared for his mother, Nellie, until her death in 2014 at the age of 101.

Rodney would want his loved ones and friends to live by the Courage motto: “Do the best you can with what you have wherever you are.” We will miss you, Rodney.

A visitation for Rodney will be held Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at SCHOEDINGER MIDTOWN, 229 E State Street, Columbus, OH 43215, followed by a celebration of life from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Please visit www.schoedinger.com to share memories and condolences.