Rodney was born June 16, 1938, in Ackerman, Mississippi, to L. M. and Nealie Estelle “Sis” McClure. He was a member of Poplar Flat Baptist Church. Early in his working career, Rodney worked as a car salesman in Jackson, Mississippi. He continued to buy and sell cars periodically and was known to sell a car out from under his girls! Rodney later retired from Southern Natural Gas. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He loved his dog, Sally, and often teased the girls that Sally was their sister! Rodney also enjoyed playing cards, shooting pool, and finding a good deal, whether at a yard sale or Dirt Cheap. Most of all, Rodney dearly loved his family. He enjoyed spending time with them and especially enjoyed riding around with his grandchildren, making memories they will always treasure.
Rodney is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Nell Cockrell McClure; and his daughters: Sheila (Robbye) McMillan and Natalie (Jay) Willis all of Louisville; and Shannon (David) Ruffin of Starkville, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “DeeDee” to his grandchildren: Erik McMillan (Rikki), Connor Romedy (Penny), Chelsea Atchison (Ben), Marly McMillan, Collin Willis, Evan (Riley) Willis, Harris Ruffin, and Hadley Ruffin; as well as his seven great-grandchildren: Jack Romedy, Karley Walters, Manny Romedy, Rodney Romedy, Paige Atchison, Liah Atchison, and Andie Willis. He is also survived by his aunt, Margie Murphy; his sister, Ann McCool; and his brother, Jimmy Ralph McClure (Linda); in addition to his nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by an infant son, Rodney Lawrence McClure, Jr.; his parents; and his brother-in-law, Russell McCool.
Serving as pallbearers are Connor Romedy, Collin Willis, Evan Willis, Harris Ruffin, Ben Atchison, Will Bane, and John Dempsey. Memorials in honor of Rodney may be given to Poplar Flat Cemetery Fund, P. O. Box 684, Louisville, MS 39339.
Our family of would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice for the compassionate care and support given to us during such a difficult time. A very special thank you goes to his nurses, Melissa and Shaina; his aides, Jerri and Lily; and his caregiver, Samantha, for the kindness, patience, and gentle care they provided. Each of you made a difficult journey a little easier.
Services are under the direction of Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.masseyfuneralhome.net.