TUSCALOOSA Rodney “Hot Rod” Edwin Garner, age 73, of Tuscaloosa, peacefully passed away surrounded by his family at Hospice of West Alabama on July 25, 2021. Services are to be performed by Memory Chapel and officiated by Brother James Walker and Brother Bernie Deffinger. Visitation with the family will be on Tuesday, July 27th from 6-8 pm. A memorial service will be Wednesday, July 28th at 10 am with burial following in Memory Hill Gardens.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Olis Garner and Sarah Stanley and his parents-in-law, Junior and Betty Ballard, all of Tuscaloosa. He is survived by his beloved wife, Wanda; daughter, Cindi (Robby) Sonnier; son, Chad (Shawnna) Garner; and grandchildren, Sloan Sonnier, Savannah Sonnier, Kayleigh Wells, Kinsley Garner, Kennedie Garner, and Kolbi Garner; brothers, Larry “Frog” Garner, Stan (Nancy) Garner, Debra (Terry) Shelton; brothers-in-law, Bobby (Jackie) Ballard, Mark (Melissa) Ballard; sister-in-law, Linda (Grady) Williams; and numerous neices and nephews.
Rodney graduated from Holt High School in 1966. He is a Veteran of the United States Navy. He worked several years with the Railroad and retired from BF Goodrich after 34 years of service. Rodney was a faithful member of First Church of the Nazarene for 55 years.
Rodney lived his life devoted to Wanda, his wife of 53 years, his family, and so many special friends.
He loved Alabama Football, bowling, going to the beach, and car shows. He could be frequently found at his favorite restaurants, La Gran Fiesta and Waffle House.
Rodney will be dearly missed by so many; remembered for being the life of the party, the one who inspired those around him to always be joyful, and fully celebrating life with every opportunity.
Pallbearers will be Sloan Sonnier, Shane Ballard, Cole Ballard, Jack Ballard, Kevin Ballard, Scott Green, Lane Green, Roman Shaul, Jody Shaul, Dax Lott, Tyler Garner, Reid Garner, and Adam Ballard.
Honorary pallbearers will be Doyle Elledge, Scott Cheatham, Jimmy Reynolds and Seth Shaul.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hospice of West Alabama or The First Church of the Nazerene.
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