Roscoe L Exley of Newark, DE, died peacefully Friday, July 13, 2018. He was born on June 26, 1931 in Box Iron, MD to the late John O. Exley and Lola Marie (Watson) Exley.
Roscoe was the youngest of 15 children, and was the first in his family to attend college. He attended the University of Delaware, and was a brother in the Kappa Alpha fraternity, having served as the vice-president during his tenure. Roscoe graduated from the University of Delaware in 1959, and maintained a lifetime love of Blue Hen football, attending games from the 50 yard line every year for more than 50 years. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1950-1953 and was a long time member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Newark, DE.
From an early age Roscoe had a great passion for plants and getting his hands in the dirt, expressing that through his career as a Horticulturist, working first for the University of Delaware and later for the Delaware Racing Association, where he was able to use his talents on the track at Delaware Park. Roscoe lived to beautify his surroundings through landscape design, knowing each plant, what was best to place in each location, and what would grow well together.
Roscoe, a great people person, loved to entertain his family and friends at parties. He was able to brighten the room simply by being in it. Roscoe was loved by everyone that was lucky enough to have known him and his ever-present smile. His greatest pleasure was found in devoting time to his family.
The family would like to thank the staff at Brackenville Center and Compassionate Care Hospice for their wonderful care.
Roscoe is survived by his loving wife of 60 and a half years, Sonja Exley; three children: Eric Exley and his wife, Heather, Christopher Exley and his wife, Ginger and Ingrid Thomas and her husband, Steve; eight grandchildren: Sarah, Brooke, Michael, Olivia, Miles, Emma, Kira and Jane; two great grandchildren: Elin and Otto; two sisters: Elizabeth Hodge and Nora Downes. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Including his parents he was also preceded by his 4 sisters and 8 brothers.
A memorial service will be held in Roscoe’s honor promptly at 11AM on Saturday, July 21, 2018 at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 276 S. College Ave., Newark, DE 19711. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made payable to “University of Delaware, Football Program” or “St. Thomas Episcopal Church” and sent in care of R.T. Foard & Jones, Inc., 122 W. Main St., Newark, DE 19711.