Rodney F. (Rod) St. Clair went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, August 18, 2018 with his wife and children by his side. A celebration of his life, led by Randy Gunter, will be Tuesday, August 21 at 2:00pm, with visitation preceding the service from 12-2pm at Meadowbrook Church, Gadsden, AL. Burial to follow at Yellow Creek Church Cemetery in Leesburg, AL.
Pallbearers include Randy Smith, Don Smith, Eddie Vance, Garry Wilder, Ronnie Jeffcoat, Jimmy Osborn, Charlie Skaggs, Brett Thompson.
First and foremost, Rod loved the Lord – and as an outward example of this love and faith, Rod loved people, always ready with a handshake and a smile. His charismatic personality drew people into his circle, making them feel included or a part of the team. Rod’s love of people and community was the backbone of his relationships and permeated into all aspects of his life. He was an active member of Meadowbrook Church, participating in or leading numerous ministries, including his starring role as Grandpa Henry in the KidStuf children’s ministry.
Rod loved sports. He was a distinguished athlete at Sand Rock High School setting school records and earning numerous local and state honors in both football and basketball. He continued to play competitive softball and basketball well into his 60’s and was also an avid golfer. Rod also instilled a love of sports in his children, coaching little league baseball and youth basketball. One of his favorite pastimes was watching his beloved Auburn Tigers and Atlanta Braves.
Rod also loved food. His love of food and community was evident in both his personal and professional life. In addition to cooking for family and friends, Rod built a successful career in the food service industry. Rod’s career ultimately provided him with the opportunity to start his own successful food brokerage business, Foodman Sales. The relationships Rod forged during his career became treasured friendships.
Rod was a great man and the grace and courage he exhibited throughout his life serves as an example for all who knew him to follow.
Rod was a native of Cherokee County, son of the late C.L. and Sara Maude St. Clair. Rod is survived by his wife, Evelyn Thompson St.Clair; sons, Kevin (Angelique) St. Clair of Thompson’s Station, TN, Ty (Kellie) St. Clair of Gadsden; daughter, Kelli (Jesse) Robertson of Denton, TX; grandchildren, Karmen St. Clair, Evie Claire Robertson, Crosby St. Clair, Sawyer St. Clair.
The family would like to thank all of the healthcare professionals who helped take care of Rod during the past several months. We also offer a special message of gratitude to Kayla Howingtion and Ashley Martin for the compassion and loving care they provided to all of us during Rod’s courageous battle.
Memorials may be made to the Alabama Children’s Hospital Foundation at 1600 7th Avenue S; Birmingham, AL 35233, to Meadowbrook Church 2525 Rainbow Drive; Gadsden, AL 35901 or the family will accept flowers.
Perry Funeral Home directing.