Rodney Lee Searles

Rodney Lee Searles, born on March 8, 1968, in Lakeland, Florida, was a beacon of hope and help in his community and a cherished member of his family.
Known for his bravery, compassion, and unwavering commitment to his vocation, Rodney spent 25 dedicated years as an Emergency Medical Technician. His life was a testament to the quote, “Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear.” No truer words could be spoken about Rodney, who made the conscious choice every day to put the lives of others before his own.
Rodney resided in Williamsburg, Kentucky, and was an integral part of the Whitley County EMS and Ambulance Inc. His work, although challenging, was his passion, and his dedication was unyielding. He was a source of strength and stability in the most uncertain of times, for both his colleagues and the countless lives he touched. Outside of his career, Rodney was a man of many interests, but his heart was always drawn back to his work, his true calling. His life was the embodiment of the quote, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”
Rodney is survived by his mother, Verla Searles; his siblings, Angie Searles, Bobby (Regina) Searles, and Randy Searles. He also leaves behind his children, Mitchell (Katie) York, and LeeJay (Selena) York. His family extended to his beloved nieces, Cheyann, Nicole, Lacey, Erika, Miranda, and nephews Kyler, Zachery, Trey, Asher, and Quentin.
Rodney was preceded in death by his father, Bobby Searles; his uncle, James Denker; and his grandparents, Phyllis Grubb and Henry Denker.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 1:00 pm at the Croley Funeral Home, located at 103 South 2nd Street, Williamsburg, Kentucky. This will be followed by the funeral service at 3:00 pm at the same venue with Chaplain Rodney Goodlett officiating.
A private graveside service will take place at 4:00 pm at the Croley Addition Highland Park Cemetery.
Rodney’s life was one of service, of love, and of dedication to his community. His memory will forever be a reminder to us all of the power of compassion and the strength of the human spirit. In celebration of Rodney’s life, we invite you to share your memories and upload photos on his memorial page. Your stories, pictures, and tributes will serve as a testament to the remarkable man Rodney was, and the indelible impact he left on those around him.
Croley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.