Edward Kirk Rock, 70, completed his mission on Earth on October 19, 2022, in Columbia. Ed was born to the parents of Lander “Pete” and Bernie Rock in Sumter, on February 29, 1952. He graduated from Edmunds High School in 1969, where he was a trailblazer in the racial integration of Sumter School District 17. Shortly after graduating high school, Ed moved to Bridgeport, Connecticut where he was employed by the Bridgeport Post. Ed’s zest for life and love for humanity was reflected daily as a Mental Health Associate for Connecticut Department of Mental Health. He served in this role for over 35 years – being a light to all patients and fellow staff. It was also there that his love for physical fitness flourished and his passion for exercise and wellbeing welcomed additional opportunities within his communities. After retirement, Ed continued his active lifestyle by being employed with the YMCA of Naugatuck and Greater Waterbury. In 2018, Ed received the Mary Elizabeth Mannweiler Employee of the Year award for his, “positive energy and compassionate personality, his display of dedication to the members, and his willingness to support all other staff.” During his employment, one of his most notable experiences was working as a certified LIVESTRONG instructor with the YMCA. In this program, passionately utilized physical fitness with individuals who are living with, through or beyond cancer – touching the lives of dozens. Ed is survived by his sister, Gloria Rock of Sumter; a nephew, Troy Rock of Florence; a niece, Essie (Chaka) Sellers of Columbia, a host of other relatives and friends including a beloved friend. In accordance with the COVID-19 guidelines, the family is requesting that face masks and social distancing be observed by relatives and friends during visitation at the home from 3:00 – 7:00 p. m., 955 Oswego Highway, Sumter. The Remains will be placed in the church at 10:00 a. m. for viewing until time of services. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a. m., Monday, October 24, 2022 at Antioch United Methodist Church, 4040 Dubose Siding Road, Sumter, with the Rev. Marvis L. Stewart, M. Div., pastor, eulogist. The procession will leave the home at 10:20 a. m. Burial will follow in the Hillside Memorial Park, 2561 Cain’s Mill Road, Sumter.
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