Rodney Andre Beal

Rodney was a loving, kind man. He cared deeply about his family, friends and his team—the Florida Gators. He fiercely believed in God, and used the Word as a guidepost for his life. He loved hard and true, especially when it came to his wife, Kelleigh, and his pups, Huckleberry and Albert.

Since 2006, Rodney was employed with Coca-Cola, working most recently as an accountant with Coca-Cola Refreshments in Atlanta, GA. During his tenure there, he forged many solid friendships. As his colleagues will tell you, Rodney always had a kind word or uplifting story to brighten their day.

Rodney believed that we’re put on this earth to love and be of service. He managed to do both extremely well. Whether donating blood with the American Red Cross, which he did as often as they would let him, or giving advice or a listening ear to a friend across the poker table, Rodney always made time for the people and causes that he cared about.

Rodney had an impressive shoe collection. Because he walked with a limp, he knew people were going to stare at his feet. His philosophy was simple: “I’ll give them something nice to look at!” That’s Rodney—realistic, optimistic and fearless.

Rodney gained his confidence and matter-of-fact approach at an early age. He was born November 6, 1969 in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, the only child of Terrance and Annie Laura Beal (both deceased). Mrs. Beal raised Rodney, her three younger siblings, a niece and three nephews all on her own. With eight children under one roof, their means were limited at times. Their love and devotion to each other, however, was (and is) boundless.

Many people may be surprised to learn that Rodney did not graduate from the University of Florida. Rodney was a proud graduate of DeVry University-Georgia (class of 1996); however he was a die-hard Gator through and through. When Kelleigh asked him why he loved the Gators so much, Rodney shared that when he was growing up, most of his friends were Seminole fans, so he started liking the Gators. If you knew Rodney, this does not surprise you. He loved sports and good-natured trash talking.

There are countless Rodney stories and so many wonderful qualities to remember. He was just that guy. If you needed him, he’d be there. It didn’t matter if you hadn’t talked to him in months or even years. If he loved you, he loved you for life—and beyond.

Rodney is now with our heavenly Father, but he remains alive in our hearts and memories. We will never forget him. To do so would be like forgetting to breathe.

In addition to countless friends, aunts, uncles and cousins, Rodney leaves behind his wife, Kelleigh Scott Beal of Johns Creek, GA; “brother” Tyone White of McDonough, GA; and “sisters” Sherri Carson and Stephanie White of Fort Walton Beach, FL.