Rodney Dean Blakeman, 63, of Rayville, died Thursday, April 29, 2021, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Rodney was born on May 22, 1957, in Henrietta, the son of Robert E. and Iola F. (Damon) Blakeman. He was united in marriage to Teresa L. Hardwick of Richmond on Oct. 14, 1989. She survives of the home.

Additional survivors include: two brothers, Richard L. Blakeman of Rayville and Donald G. (Mary Alice) Blakeman of Richmond; and a sister, Elizabeth A. “Liz” Moppin of Kansas City. Many nieces, nephews, and extended family members and friends also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert Wayne “Bobby” Blakeman; brother-in-law, George Andy Moppin Jr.; sister-in-law, Reta Blakeman; and nephew, Jerod Blakeman.

Rodney was reared and educated in the area of his birth and attended grade school in Henrietta and graduated in 1976 from Richmond High School. After high school, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. Rodney also was a member of the Missouri National Guard.

He worked for 41 years at U.S. Granules in Henrietta. Rodney enjoyed collecting guns and target shooting and was a lifelong NRA member. He and Teresa enjoyed taking many motorcycle vacations. He was a member of the American Motorcycle Association and the G.I. Joe Collectors Club.

Rodney enjoyed family get-togethers, especially cookouts and the annual Fourth of July celebration. He was a big-hearted and physically strong man.

The family suggests memorial contribtuions be made to the local humane society or the NRA. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 4, at Thurman Fuenral Home in Richmond. Visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, May 3, at the funeral home. Burial was in Crowley Cemetery near Rayville. Military honors were provided by the Army and Ray County Veterans.

Please share your memories of Rodney with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.