Michael D. Rolley 1952-2025

Michael was born June 28, 1952, in East Liverpool, a son of the late Robert and Betty Kinney Rolley. He was a devoted husband, dedicated father, loving brother and a beloved grandfather who cherished his family above all else.

Michael graduated from East Liverpool City High School in 1970 and later earned his bachelor’s degree in business from YSU. In 1981, he and his family moved to Houston, Texas, where he began his professional career in human resources, working for various corporations. He returned to Youngstown in 1994, where he continued to raise his family and work until he and Barbara’s well-deserved retirement on the same day in 2018.

A passionate Pittsburgh sports fan, especially hockey, Michael greatly enjoyed watching the Penguins, Steelers and Pirates. In addition to sports, he was an avid music lover who loved attending concerts and traveling. However, nothing was more important to him than his family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy and pride.

Those who were fortunate to have known Michael will remember him most for his generosity, kindness, love for his family, his quick wit and unmistakable sense of humor. Even in the face of adversity, he continued to make those around him laugh with his classic one-liners, despite knowing the insurmountable odds he was up against. His inspiring and courageous fight against cancer was the ultimate testament to his strength and perseverance.

Michael leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife of over 50 years, Barbara Klempay Rolley, whom he married Sept. 14, 1974; his three sons, Robert (Lisa Metzinger) Rolley of Boardman, Michael (Nora) Rolley of Stow and James (Kimberly) Rolley of Struthers; 10 grandchildren, Angela, Morgan, Karina, Matthew, Amanda, Julianna, Mia, Hannah, Connor and Andrew; and his brother, Thomas (Melissa) Rolley of Cartersville, Georgia.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be 1 p.m. Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel. Prior to the service, calling hours will take place 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

In recognition and appreciation of the care provided to the family throughout his lengthy treatment in Cleveland, the family requests that any material contributions be made in Michael’s honor to the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, 11432 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, OH 44106.

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