Rodney K. Morgans | News, Sports, Jobs

Rodney K. Morgans, 72, of Williamsport, died unexpectedly of heart-related complications on Saturday, July 20, 2024, in Binghamton, New York, while attending his granddaughter’s softball game.

Rod was born on September 11, 1951, the son of the late Rodney K. and Patricia (Mercer) Morgans. His life was marked by dedication to his family, his students, and the many interests that brought joy to his days.

Rod was born a Mountie and raised as a police officer. He graduated from South Williamsport High School in 1969, where he played several sports.

He graduated from Bloomsburg State College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education in 1973. After graduating, he returned to “the other side of the river” and became a millionaire, devoting 25 years to teaching social studies and history in the Williamsport Area School District. Rod’s influence as an educator extended beyond the classroom, as he took on the role of coach for the school’s basketball and softball teams, leaving a lasting legacy in the lives of countless students and athletes. The impact of his teaching, his coaching, and his genuine interest in the well-being of others will be felt for generations.

Rod was a member of St. Joseph the Worker Parish. His love of sports was evident in his unwavering support for the New York Yankees. Rod’s interests were diverse and fulfilling; he enjoyed fishing with his grandson, Caleb. His appreciation for the arts was shared with his late fiancée and best friend, Elaine M. Eck, as they enjoyed many Broadway shows, cruises and wine tours together. Rod’s spirit was truly fueled by his role as the biggest fan and supporter of his grandchildren’s endeavors, a role he deeply cherished.

Rod was preceded in death by his fiancée and best friend, Elaine M. Eck, on June 16, 2011. He is survived by his loving daughter, Christa Gehr, his adored grandchildren, Caleb and Isabella Reddy and Lainey Gehr, who will forever remember their grandfather’s passionate and spirited encouragement; his sister, Sandy, and her husband, Mark LeVan, of South Williamsport; along with his niece, Lyndy LeVan; and his adored cats, Twinkle and Rosie.

He was preceded in death by a cousin, Mitch LeVan.

A funeral service to celebrate Rod’s life will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 30, at Sanders Mortuary, 821 Diamond St., Williamsport. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, July 29, at Sanders Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Rod’s memory may be made to the WASD Education Foundation, for the Rodney K. Morgans Scholarship Fund, 2780 W Fourth Street, Williamsport, PA 17701.

Online condolences may be made to Rod’s memorial page at www.SandersMortuary.com.