“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11

Tiberius Greggory (Ty) Drocea, 24, of Hahira, ran into the arms of Jesus on May 5, 2026, surrounded by his parents and the love of his family. Tiberius loved Jeremiah 29:11 and lived boldly, fearlessly, and with a spirit larger than life itself. Known for his natural athleticism and nickname “The Gladiator” and willingness to try absolutely anything, he never met a challenge he would back away from. Whether it was football, pole vaulting, baseball, wrestling, bowling, golfing, disc golfing, or even bull riding, Tiberius gave everything he had and inspired those around him to do the same. Tiberius graduated from Lowndes High School in 2020 and played football for the Vikings. In 2019, he was honored as Region Athlete of the Year, a reflection not only of his talent but of the heart and determination he carried into every arena of life.

But beyond the accomplishments and trophies, those who knew Tiberius will remember the joy he brought into every room. His infectious smile, booming laugh, quick wit, and endless jokes made him unforgettable. He loved life deeply — from the beach and snowboarding adventures to moments spent laughing with family and friends. He loved his brothers fiercely and treasured every memory made alongside them.

After high school, Tiberius worked as a lineman, explored construction and building, and later found a home working at the Hydraulic Shop alongside his brother Noah, where he gained not only coworkers but a second family in the Presleys. Tiberius was a member of Park Avenue Church and loved serving as a soldier in the annual production of The Promise, helping tell the story of Jesus Christ to countless people through the years. His faith was one like Jacob - he wrestled with God in trials, but he never let go. Yet Tiberius’s greatest testimony came during the final 39 days of his life. Through unimaginable hardship, he praised his Lord and Savior daily with unwavering faith, courage, and peace. Calling himself “The Lord’s Champ,” Tiberius believed with all his heart that God had saved him so that his life — and even his journey through suffering — could make a difference in someone else’s life. His strength, faith, and testimony left an eternal impact on all who witnessed it.

He is survived by his loving parents, Heather & Morgan Croft of Hahira, Thomas & Ashley Drocea of Pulaski, TN; his beloved brothers Noah Drocea and Dalton Drocea; stepbrothers CJ Tillery and Ethan Tillery of Lakeland, FL; grandparents Tracy & Irene Lynn of Columbia, TN, Ed & Janet Baddeley of Sebring, OH , Donna Croft of Kamloops, BC Canada, Daryle Croft of Winfield BC Canada and bonus grandparents Reese & Carole Nelson of Valdosta; Sarah Lane of Stockton, GA, Casey & Karen Taylor of Arlington, GA and Joe Thwaites; his girlfriend, Rachael Goss; aunts & uncles, Kim & Chris Miller, Stacey (& Joe) Baddeley, Denise Baddeley, Bobbi & George Brantingham, Donny & Rhonda close, Claudia Drocea, Sarah & Ronnie Green, Ilona (& Ashley Pickett) Drocea cousins, friends, and all who loved him dearly, including the ’Rona Sisters. Tiberius is preceded in death by his grandparents, Dianna & Tiberius Drocea and his uncle, Edward Baddeley, Jr.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Shands Hospital in Gainesville including the outstanding nurses and ECMO team; Zoey Miller, Steffany Howard, Lindsey Clay, Brian Portal, Christobal Velazquez and Blair Smith for their compassionate care and ability to always perform “bicycles” on Tiberius’s legs.

Though hearts are broken in his absence, those who loved Tiberius find peace knowing he is whole, healed, and forever victorious in the presence of Jesus Christ. His laughter, faith, courage, and love will continue to echo in the lives of everyone blessed enough to know him.

The funeral for Tiberius will be held at Park Avenue Church at 2 pm on Saturday, May 16, 2026. Rev. Jimmy Towson and Rev. Jamie Bone will officiate. Burial will follow at McLane Riverview Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday evening from 5 until 7 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to The Viking Touchdown club, Shands Hospital or Park Avenue Church. The service will be livestreamed at www.parkave.church/live for those unable to attend. Condolences may be conveyed to the family on the obituary page of www.mclanecares.com 

Carson McLane Funeral Home