Rothwell Leander (Rocky) Black Obituary (1931

Rothwell Leander Black (fondly known as Rocky), born on July 7, 1931, in London, Kentucky, was a man whose name was as strong and memorable as his character. As a child, he was known as Lee, but in adulthood, Rocky became his signature, and friends loved to pronounce it with a flourish—RRRROOCKE, rolling the 'R' with gusto, savoring each sound. Rocky graduated from London High School in 1949, later earning an associate's degree from Sue Bennett College in 1956. He then attended the University of Kentucky, where he studied engineering and laid the foundation for a career full of ingenuity and hard work. In the early 1950s, he embarked on a journey with his cousin Harold Black at the Dixie Bridge Company, where he accumulated countless high adventures and shared tall tales. Soon after, he followed his beloved uncle, Roy M. Black, to work at Black & Company. There, Rocky's career flourished, and he rose to become the Director of Purchasing. His crowning professional achievement was designing and overseeing the creation of the central warehouse, CW-10, a project he spoke of with immense pride. Rocky served in the U.S. Army as a corporal during the Korean War era, though he was never deployed overseas. His fondest memories from this time were of his experiences in Texas, which he cherished throughout his life. On October 25, 1958, Rocky married Daisy Edna Black, the love of his life. Their marriage was marked not only by deep devotion but also by an extraordinary sense of harmony, a partnership defined by mutual respect and a shared understanding that made their bond truly special. Together, they raised their family with steadfast faith and boundless love. Daisy preceded Rocky in death, passing away on March 13, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion that Rocky cherished until his final days. In 1970, Rocky built their first home with his own hands, a labor of love and dedication. While he had help from his father, brothers, sons, his nephew Randy, and his cousin Manuel "Dee" George, the most steadfast and devoted helper was his beloved wife, Daisy. Together, they poured their hearts into the home, and Rocky’s perfectionism as a craftsman shone through in every detail. The homes he built reflected his commitment to quality—never taking shortcuts, always ensuring the best. This dedication to excellence carried through everything he did, and his work stood as a testament to his meticulous nature and passion for craftsmanship. Rocky had a wry sense of humor that he deeply enjoyed, often sharing clever remarks that brought laughter to those around him. His humor, paired with his sharp wit, became a hallmark of his interactions and added joy to his relationships. He triumphed over a powerful smoking addiction, aided by the unwavering support of his wife Daisy and his uncle Roy. From that point forward, he lived as if he had never smoked, maintaining a vigor and spryness even into his 94th year. In 1986, Rocky retired from the hardware business after a successful career that provided well for his family. He returned to London, Kentucky, where he farmed with his brother Ed for the next ten years, embracing the simplicity and fulfillment of rural life. Rocky was the son of Clyde L. Black and Corda (Doughty) Black. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Daisy and his brothers Kenneth M. Black and Owen L. Black. He is survived by his siblings, listed from oldest to youngest: Charles Edwin Black, Larry Black (Brenda), and Mary Lou Gregory. Rocky is survived by his sons: Glenn (wife Zhaoying Zheng and their daughter Rong Huang), Gary (Jill), and Dale (Susan). He was a proud grandfather to Nathan and Rachel, born to Dale and Susan. A man of faith, Rocky raised his family in the Lord, instilling values of integrity and devotion. With an engineer's mind, a craftsman’s hands, and a wry sense of humor, his legacy is etched not only in the structures he built but also in the hearts of those who loved him. A funeral service honoring Rothwell Leander Black will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of House-Rawlings Funeral Home with Brad Wilson officiating. Interment will follow at Lickliter Cemetery in London, Kentucky. The family will receive friends on Saturday beginning at 12:00 p.m. until the funeral hour, also at the funeral home. The family has entrusted House-Rawlings Funeral Home with the arrangement.