The "Gift" of life for Roderick Roy Finley started on December 7, 1959, in Cincinnati, Ohio born to the late Oscar Robert Finley and Pauline Finley (Haugabook). Roderick was one of three children born to this union. Roderick departed this earthly life on Tuesday, February 16, 2021.

Roderick enjoyed his "Gift" of life. He loved sports of all kinds. He played baseball, football, and basketball in which he excelled at all. However, he will be known for his basketball skills. He was one of the "Best" point guards that played the game out of the Woodward Bulldog era. Roderick graduated from Woodward High school, class of 1978. Roderick also attended Sinclair Community College where he continued his education and his love for basketball.

Roderick had the gift to gab. He was affectionately called Hot Rod because he could accelerate smoothly with the quickness and talk you right out of your shoes. One of Roderick's past jobs was selling cars. Hot Rod would be selling them right after the trade-in, didn't even have time to clean them up.

Roderick had a strong love for people. No one was ever a stranger just a friend for life. Roderick was very engaging taking small talking points and making them a huge conversation. Roderick was definitely a child of GOD.

Roderick confessed Jesus Christ at an early age as his personal savior at Southern Baptist Church while he was baptized by the Rev. J.E. Milton.

Roderick became a member of New Prospect Baptist Church where he served in the parking ministries.

Roderick was preceded in death by his father, Oscar R. Finley, Jr., and his nephew, Jeffery E. Moore Jr.

Roderick leaves behind his mother, Pauline Finley; his sister "Big Sis" Gail Moore (Jeffery) of Rochester, NY;  his big brother, Robert Finley (Zonk); nieces, Latoya, Ashlee, and Ciara; two nephews, (Late Jeffery), and Robert Jr.; and a host of great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins and friends.

Now in this last chapter of his life on earth, the biggest "Gift" that Roderick has left with us is his unconditional love for you and your love for him.

Roderick Roy Finley will forever be in our hearts. We Love you "Hot Rod"

The gathering is from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm on Friday, February 26, 2021, at the New Prospect Baptist Church, 1580 Summit Road, Cincinnati, (45237).   The memorial service will immediately follow the gathering beginning at 12:00 pm. Everyone attending must wear a mask and practice social distancing.

In keeping with the Covid-19 Pandemic restrictions masks are required in order to enter the service and social distancing must be practiced.  Please be prepared to comply for the safety of all.

To share a memory of Roderick or leave a special message for the Finley family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home is honored to serve the  Finley family.  Please call (513) 251-6200 or visit www.WalkerFuneralHome.com for additional information.