Rholin Cooley started his work life as a mail carrier, but was lured into commercial growing and sales of irises by the beautiful ones he saw in Dr. Kleinsorge's garden. Over the years his catalogues have featured the introductions of such famous hybridizers as Dr. Kleinsorge, Mr. Bonnewitz, Mr. Wareham, Dr. Ayres, Dr. Kirkland, the Sass brothers; and more recently, the introductions of Dave Hall, Jim Gibson, Larry Gaulter, and the Cooley family. Rholin Cooley contributed greatly to the popularity of the iris flower, and all who knew learned to admire his kindness and consideration—the marks of a true gentleman.¹