Rutherford County Schools
February 16, 2024
Since Rockvale High School reopened in the fall of 2019, one of the many goals of the school and community was to bridge the past with the present.
Opening its doors in 1927 and closing them in 1972, Rockvale served the community with many students passing through the halls. Reopening was a momentous event for the Rockvale community.
In the words of County Commissioner Pettus Read, a Rockvale alum, “We get our do-over.”
Rockvale High School has forged its way honoring the past, while speaking to the future.
Rockvale didn’t start out being the Rockets. That name came later. During World War II, many students left school and enlisted in a branch of the military even before graduation. When they returned, to honor the military, they named the mascot “The Rockets.”
U.S. Army Col. Bob Farris, Class of 1950, was instrumental in getting rocket currently stationed in front of the school donated.
While creating the school’s first hall of fame class, the administration wanted to incorporate more than just athletics. Rockvale has a rich tradition of military service for this great country. Principal Steve Luker and the committee unanimously agreed to incorporate not just athletes into Rockvale’s Hall of Fame, but also students and alumni who have selflessly served in all branches of the military to serve our nation. The new chapter of Rockvale High School Athletic and Military Hall of Fame builds the connections of the past to the present and the future Rockvale.
The inaugural class included two of the school’s first teams to make TSSAA state tournament, two athletes and two armed forces veterans.
The 1941 men’s basketball team and the 1962 women’s basketball team were the school’s first to advance to the state tournament.
Greta Delbridge Brown (Class of 1957) and Homer Brown (Class of 1955) were stellar basketball players during their time at the school. They have also been major contributors to the Rockvale community and its schools.
Frank Hayes and Col. Farris were enshrined for their military service.
Hayes’ military service was one of extraordinary bravery and courage. He left high school in 1944 before graduating to serve his country in the European Theatre during WWII. He was a Purple Heart recipient due to an injury sustained during battle. His military service reflects great credit upon himself, the U.S. Army, and Rockvale High School. Hayes retunred to graduate from Rockvale in 1948.
Col. Farris’ 30-year career exemplified the heart of American courage and bravery and was one of honor and distinction. He served at the Pentagon under three different presidents. This exemplary military service reflects great credit upon himself, the United States Army, and Rockvale High School.