Rodney Person

Rodney Gene Person, age 60, of Columbus, Ohio, was born on April 9, 1966, passed away on June 28, 2026.

A lifelong resident of Columbus, Rodney attended Marion-Franklin High School, Class of 1984, and a cherished member of the Southfield family. Following high school, Rodney dedicated much of his career to working as a truck driver. In 2024, he began a new chapter with Columbus City Schools, serving at Columbus Global Academy where he genuinely enjoyed interacting with the students and staff.

Rodney embraced life with enthusiasm and loved spending time with those closest to him. He found joy riding his Harley-Davidson, playing golf, hosting Ohio State football game gatherings, grilling for family and friends, and traveling with his loved ones. He was a devoted fan of both the Dallas Cowboys and the Ohio State Buckeyes. More than anything, Rodney will be remembered for his tremendous heart, unwavering loyalty, and the kindness and generosity he extended to everyone he met. He was a loving husband, devoted family man, and faithful friend whose presence brought comfort, laughter, and strength to so many.

Rodney was preceded in death by his father, Gene Calvin Person.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Kellie Person, and beloved son, Jordan Brown, both of Columbus, Ohio; mother, Ruth Person of Columbus, Ohio; sisters, Pamela (James) Smith and Jacqueline (Michael) Flemmings, both of Columbus, Ohio; sisters-in-law, Amber McKinney of Dayton, Ohio, and Donnetta (Rodney) Norris of Mansfield, Texas; nieces, Adrienna Smith, Jessica (Clarence) Richardson, and Eryn (Vaughn) McKoy, all of Columbus, Ohio; nephews, Brenddon Flemmings and Robert (Precious) Smith of Columbus, Ohio, along with Kalen McKinney, Kameron McKinney, Christopher Yow, Damari Yow, and Damoni Yow of Dayton, Ohio; mother-in-law, Theresa Woodfork; father-in-law, Jonathan McKinney; special friend and bonus mom, Carolyn Knight; and a host of cousins, extended family members, dear friends, neighbors, and colleagues who will forever cherish the memories they shared with him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to some of Rodney’s closest friends and nephews who are honored to serve as his pallbearers, escorting him on his final earthly journey with the same love, respect, and brotherhood they shared throughout his life.

Though Rodney’s life was cut far too short, the love he gave, the friendships he treasured, and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy of kindness, loyalty, laughter, and unconditional love will never be forgotten.

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