Rodney Donald Jarrell

Rodney Jarrell, 75, took his final walk home to be with his Lord and Savior on August 27, 2026. Born in 1951 to the late Donald Walker Jarrell and Wanita Sapp Jarrell, Rodney spent his 75 years filling the lives around him with warmth, laughter, and an unwavering love for his family and faith.

Rodney gave his life to Christ at eight years old in 1959, accepting Jesus into his heart and walking with Him every day since. That faith guided everything he did—especially during his dedicated career with the City of Jacksonville in the Parks & Recreation Department.

While in the Military, the Air Force and Army Reserves from 1969-1975, he earned the rank of E4 Sergeant in the role of Military Police. In that time, he was awarded the Air Force Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

He had a genuine passion for serving others, and his amazing personality had a way of instantly brightening any room he entered. Rodney also loved to sing in the chorus at North Jacksonville Baptist Church and Andrew Jackson High School, and to coach sports teams. Rodney cherished his family deeply and always made a point to keep up with every birthday and special milestone. He was a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, and the kind of friend anyone could count on for a steady hand or good conversation.

While his family misses him beyond words, they find comfort in knowing he is enjoying a glorious reunion in heaven with his beloved wife, Sylvia; his sister, Karen Neu; and his parents.

Rodney is survived by his sister, Donna Dell (Russell); his brother, Dale Jarrell (Edie); his brother-in-law, Bob Neu; his son, Chris Jarrell (Jill); and his granddaughter, Juniper.

His family invites all to join in celebrating a life truly well-lived, grounded in the comfort of God's Word:

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want... Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." — Psalm 23:1, 6

"He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart." — Psalm 91:4

The funeral service will be held at Jacksonville National Cemetery (4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218) on September 10, 2026, at 10:00 AM, featuring traditional military honors rendered by the Moody Air Force Base Honor Guard.

Please arrive by 09:30 to line up in Lane 3 for the procession to the committal shelter; timing is VERY strict at the National Cemetery.

Following the service, the family invites friends and loved ones to join them for a meal and continued fellowship at the Olive Garden located at 13040 City Station Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32218. An RSVP is strongly preferred for both the service and the luncheon so the family can plan accordingly.

RSVP here:

https://airtable.com/appBoUdnW4Ql8QvwO/pagx3PjVjtwYqRb82/form

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Rodney's memory to Dreams Come True of Jacksonville, a charity that held a special place in his heart and one that his son Chris serves on as an active board member.

Dreams come True:

https://p2p.onecause.com/dreamscometrue5k/team/rodney-jarrell-memorial-team