Rev. Dr. Precious Osbey Roddey

Rev. Dr. P. Osbey Roddey was born in Catawba, South Carolina to the late Theodore and Meta Roddey. He was the seventh child of 13 siblings. Five brothers and six sisters preceded him in death.

He was married to the late Mrs. Teresa W. Roddey, August 16, 1963 and they shared a beautiful life together until her passing in 2016.

Osbey was educated in the public schools of Rock Hill, SC and often celebrated being a proud graduate of the historical Emmett School High School and Friendship Junior College, Rock Hill, SC. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Benedict College, Columbia, SC, Master of Educational Counseling from Winthrop University, Rock Hill, SC and further matriculated at The University of Maryland, College Park, MD and The University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC.

Osbey began his elementary school teaching career in Columbia , SC, taught at several schools in the Rock Hill School District and served as Principal at Fort Lawn Elementary School, Fort Lawn, SC. He also served as Head Start Director and Deputy Director of Carolina Community Actions, Inc. He served as Dean of the Manpower Program at York Technical College, Rock Hill for several years. For over thirty years, Osbey influenced the future of South Carolina children through dedicated teaching and counseling. He is often fondly remembered by many former students as their favorite teacher and the teacher with a “gentle but stern” discipline style who helped them understand the importance of education and always presenting oneself as an outstanding lady or gentleman. He retired after three decades of dedicated service to the education and love of children.

He was baptized at Liberty Hill Baptist Church, Catawba, SC at an early age and served in numerous capacities over the years including Deacon, Sunday School Superintendent, member of the Brotherhood and Musical Choir and the York County Baptist Superintendent Association. After receiving the call to the ministry on November 29, 1981, the spirit led him to believe he should prepare himself for this great calling. Osbey enrolled in Mid-Atlantic Bible College and received his Divinity degree. Following his mantra, Psalms 25:4 “Show me the right path, Oh Lord; point out the road for me to follow”, Dr. Roddey accepted the Senior Pastor position at Langrum Branch Baptist Church, York, SC and was installed May, 1983.

Langrum Branch and the York Community embraced him and his family. Dr. Roddey served faithfully, believing to teach a sound biblical church doctrine and provide a positive climate for the total care and growth of Langrum Branch Baptist Church both spiritually and physically. He is credited with leading the Langrum Branch congregation in construction of a 500 seat sanctuary and dining facility that the church dedicated in 1987. He has served as mentor and advisor to over 10 sons and daughters in the ministry. He served in numerous capacities in the church including Past Moderator of the Sandy River Baptist Association/ Upper Division, Chairman of Trustee Board of Friendship College, York County Ministerial Alliance and member/supporter of the Joint Baptist Convention of Chester and York Counties. Dr. Roddey loved pastoring for 34 years and remained a spiritual advisor to many after his retirement.

Dr. Roddey was an active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, Kappa Alpha Chapter. He served in numerous capacities throughout his membership including Chaplain. In 2017, the Chapter established the Roddey-Searles Championship Golf Tournament, an annual event to honor two of their brothers who were the first African Americans ever elected to the Rock Hill City Council (Rev. Dr. Roddey and the Late Winston Searles). All proceeds go towards a scholarship to an outstanding male or female student in York or Chester Counties. Dr. Roddey was very proud of this honor. He was elected and served on the Rock Hill City Council, District #5 for over 25 years making sure he connected to his community and the city. He was presented the Key to the City of Rock Hill in July, 2023.

Dr. Roddey received many accolades and awards for his work including the 2014 Dream Keeper Award, sponsored by the City of Rock Hill Community Relations Council. He was very surprised as he was presented the award for demonstrating impact by fighting for the community and the well being of all citizens while promoting racial equality and social responsibility. He said in his acceptance speech, “I only do what I love and what God has given me the direction to do.” Other organization affiliations include, NAACP Life Member, Lit. Phy. Civic and Social Club, Rock Hill Human Relations Council, Central City Optimist Club, Advisory Committee for Habitat for Humanity, Rose of Sharon Masonic Lodge #136.

A devoted family man, Dr. Roddey encouraged everyone. His kind heart and gentle nature were evident in his interactions with family, friends, believers and non-believers.

His memory will be cherished by his loving family, his son, Reginald Williams Roddey (ShaMia) ; grandson, Kenneth Reginald Roddey; great grandson, Kayden Amir Roddey; sister, Margie R. Holman (Raymond); four sister-in-laws; four brother-in-laws; Godchildren, Jennifer Massey & William Massey, Sr.; a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.