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Rodney Romney Obituary
Rodney Ross Romney, 81, of Idaho Falls, Idaho passed away Saturday, June 30, 2012 at
his home.
Rodney was born January 17, 1931 in Arco, Idaho to Lois Taylor Romney and Daniel Gaskell Romney. He was the third of three sons.
Rod grew up in Arco and moved to Howe in the fourth grade. He returned to Arco and graduated from Butte High School in 1947. He graduated from Linfield College, Berkeley Baptist Divinity School and earned a Doctor of Ministry from the American Baptist Seminary of the West in Berkeley, California.
Rod taught school in Stanley, Idaho from 1949 to 1951, high school English and music in Arco, Idaho from 1954 to 1957, youth counselor for Dependents of Military Personnel in Verdun, France from 1960 to 1961.
In 1964 Rod married Beverly Wilcoxon.
He was the Senior Minister of Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church in Oakland, California from 1961 to 1979, Speaker on "Hour of Prayer" Radio Broadcast Station KFAX in San Francisco, California from 1961 to 1979, Adjunct Professor at American Baptist Seminary of the West in preaching in 1966, speaker at numerous retreats and conferences in many states and several foreign countries, Senior Minister of Seattle First Baptist Church in Seattle, Washington from 1980 to 2000 and Adjunct Professor in Spirituality at Northwest Theological Union in Seattle in 1985. In Seattle his sermons were broadcast on KIRO-FM each Sunday morning. He was a trustee for Linfield College from 1990 to 2008 and was a recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Linfield College on May 31, 1987. He is the author of six books, A Promise of Light, Journey to Inner Space, Love Without Conditions, Wilderness Spirituality, Lessons of the Soul and I Heard A Crow Call My Name. An accomplished composer and lyricist, his hymns are included in Hymns for the Spiritual Journey, used by churches of many denominations. One hymn is published in the Upper Room Worship book. He wrote many articles for various newspapers and magazines. He was a gifted speaker and a talented musician.
Perhaps the most notable facts about Rodney Romney have been his affirmation and inclusion of all people, his honoring of the various pathways by which people seek God, his commitment to peace and nonviolence and his belief in the oneness of all creation.
Rod worked in Oakland for 20 years at the Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church which integrated during his leadership and today is a racially-integrated church. It was during the turmoil of racial tensions in our country. The next 20 years he was senior pastor at First Baptist Church of Seattle, a large downtown church with around a thousand members. He enjoyed 20 years at this church before retiring to Idaho Falls, Idaho.
Written by Rod, "A large part of my heart is and will always be in the Lost River Valley where I was born, grew up and graduated from high school, and in my own small way, through sermons and books that I have written, I have managed to put Arco on the map for those who otherwise would not have heard about it."
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Beverly Romney of Idaho Falls, Idaho; his brother, Verl (Cec) Hansen of Buhl, Idaho, sister, Dixie Lainhart of Idaho Falls, Idaho; many extended family members; and the large community of friends, students and co-workers who he helped, mentored or inspired along the way.
Rod was preceded in death by his two older brothers and their wives, Dan (Mary Ellen) and Dick (Helen) Romney.
Rod was a very special, broad-minded, open hearted, inclusive, witty, comforting, encouraging, thoughtful, human, Love-God centered teacher to many seekers over the years. He loved chocolate and was a friend to crows and squirrels.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 13, 2012 at the Baptist Community Church, 402 West Grand Avenue in Arco, Idaho, under the direction of Lost River Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests remembrances may be made to The Seattle First Baptist Church Romney Legacy Fund, 1111 Harvard Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122 or Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church, 3534 Lakeshore Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610 or to your favorite charity.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rodney Romney
Vanessa
August 28, 2025
Rev. Romney married us in February, 1977, in a beautiful and serene location called Cathedral Grove, John Muir Woods, Marin County, CA. His personal words and blessing joined our vows in a most inspiring way
Ginny Tarr
June 27, 2025
Rod has been on my mind so much lately - and today reminder from Legacy appears in my email. He continues to be an influence in my life - challenging me to try and with do and be better - more compassionate, less judgemental and definitely (and most difficult) more unconditionally loving. I love him, and miss him and our talks. I do still feel his support and some unnameable fierce caring. Mentor, friend and guide - both missed and always with me. Thank you for helping me grow up and learn to trust myself.
Alan and Shirley Bailey
June 26, 2025
Precious memories of out going to Seattle to join in the inspiring retreats guided by Rod and his team, his kind and gentle teaching is still strong in our hearts. At 92 years old we have faith that we will see him again in the not far future.
Claudia Hansen Locky
June 26, 2023
Dr Romney was such a special and inclusive soul. He graced our earth at a time when inclusion was needed, still is. We miss you Dr Romney! Claudia Hansen Lockwood
Pat Holmes
June 29, 2022
Wow. Ten years ago already. Bev, I know your life must be full and fulfilling. Sending happiness. Pat
Alan & Shirley Bailey
June 26, 2022
We remember so well, with thanks, his kindly nature and prophetic messages.
Maria Hui
January 13, 2013
I read Dr. Romney's book, spirituality wilderness. this book has given me a great deal of strength and faith in life.
Only if I had a chance to meet this wonderful man.
Pat Holmes
September 21, 2012
Beverly,
I just returned to Stanley after being gone for two years. I am so saddened to learn of Rod's passing. I wish you well on your new journey without him. Pat Holmes
Ginny Tarr
August 3, 2012
I am very sad to hear of Rod's passing - sad for me, though I know he is probably reveling in his new adventure! And sad for the loss of his presence in this part of your life, Bev. You both contributed so much to my personal growth - and were a part of so much that has been joyous in my life. I'd say I'll miss his presence in the world, but I don't believe he'll ever really be gone from our hearts and our lives.
I'm remembering snippets - Rod re-baptizing me, picking blueberries with Bev at the Ice Caves in Big 4, all the time at Lakeshore in Oakland. All the support through the years, the care and tenderness when Mom was ill, and the underlying theme of respect for all life.
You both were the first "ministers" I saw (with the exception of my bro-in-law Jim Culpepper) fully living what you "preached." I feel priviledged that God led me to walk into Lakeshore 'lo those many years ago' where I encountered two such incredible people.
God be with you - and my love to you.
Cynthia Taylor
July 25, 2012
Dearest Mrs. Beverly Romney,
I choose not to be sad but to remember the man I knew as Rev. Romney and the way he influenced my life. Rev. Romney married my mom, my aunt, and Baptised me, and helped us through the loss of our monarch. He is the reason that I'm not afraid of spiders. That one always makes me smile. Thank you Rev. Romney for helping me be the person I am today. The two of you watched me from the time I was a baby into my teens. Then came back to visit after I was an adult, it was like family coming home. My love and prayers are always with you.
Donna L. Vaughn-Goady
July 24, 2012
Dear Mrs. Romney: Although I am 58 years old now, you and Reverend Romney served at Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church when I was in my teens (1960's), so I can't quite put my head around calling you Beverly. But, I can call you and the Reverend passionate, knowledgable, caring and influential since it was in your service that I came to accept Christ and was baptized at the age of 14. I have thought of those days often, not only because of our great neighborhood BYF, but because I married into a family that also had great dedication and worked diligently to make our Church a wonderful place to worship. I have been married to Ronald Goady for almost 4 years and we actually reached back to that place in time and had Reverend Dave Gattey perform the ceremony for us. The Vaughn family has such wonderful memories of you both. We are truly and deeply sorry for your loss.
July 16, 2012
I have often called Rod Romney, my Guru and guide to a meaningful spiritual life. My beginnings go back to Bellingham First Baptist. I related to his values my Senior year at Linfield. Then at First Baptist in McMinnville in the 90's I reconnected and felt at home. The Lessons of the Soul given to us at our retreat stays by my computer to pick up for refreshment. Our Forum group at Calvin Presbyterian sends their love and thanks to you for being Rod's support all these years. Much love from Frank and Wanda Gossage '49 Phipps
July 16, 2012
Dear Beverly,
Gene, Ann, Lisa & Cami Langille all want to offer our condolances and be remembered to you. We all loved Rod and remember with such pleasure our Grand Canyon trip!
Sincerely,
Ann Langille Point Richmond, CA
Renee Burkhead
July 15, 2012
Rest in peace.
Korynn Underwood
July 11, 2012
Rod dedicated me at Lakeshore Avenue Baptist church in Oakland when I was a baby, about 48 years ago. My parents thought so highly of him - especially my mom (Marie). She respected his thoughts of inclusion and all the sense his ideas made. I remember her telling me that Rod felt that there must be some sort of afterlife because all of our great human needs (hunger, thirst, love, etc.) could be fulfilled and that made such great sense! My parents chose LABC because of its racial integration (this was in the early 60's). Rod had a vision and led well.
Bev, I'm sorry for your loss. Maybe Mom and Rod are theorizing away right now! What a lovely thought.
With love,
Whitewater rafting in Wyoming
Heidi Bloomgren
July 10, 2012
Dear Beverly-
My heart and prayers are lifted up for you. If a measure of someone is the lives they have touched and changed for the better, then Rod's life has been infinate in measure. I remain in SW North Dakota in the Bowman area with my husband, Mike (whom you met at Mom's for engagement party some 27+ yrs ago) and our two teenage boys, Erik (17yrs) and Jordan aka Jory (age 16). I teach special education grades 7 - 12 in Bowman - we have a good life. The western rural life agrees with us. Though it is a long cry from Seattle! It would be wonderful if we could see you sometime. You can reach me through BCHS in Bowman, ND.
My love and prayers,
Heidi (Aizstrauts) Bloomgren
Jim & Patti Stevenson
July 9, 2012
Beverly,
It seems like only yesterday that Jim and I attended your wedding in Arco. The years have gone all to quickly and although miles have kept us apart you and Rod have always been in our hearts. You have both played a great part in our lives, more than you will ever know. Rod was a very special person who has made a big difference in our lives and the world. He will live on. Take care of yourself and know he will always be with you.
Connie Templeton
July 8, 2012
Rodney was a true gift from God to all of us who knew him, either in person, via the radio or from his writings. He was a true profit and many of our lives were made richer and fuller by his teachings and by his gentle courage. I was truly blessed to be a member of his spiritual community. The sadness I feel by his passing is beyond my ability to express. Thank you Rodney for being You.
Jean Bryant
July 7, 2012
Farewell sweet Prince. Love knows no ending and so I know we will meet again. How sweet to think of you and Jim reunited once again. And dear Beverly--a love that few are privileged to share. My love is all around you.
July 6, 2012
Dear Beverly,
Rod was an inspiration to us and many others including family in Holland. His wisdom will live forever, he has started a flame that is steadily changing the world. We can only think of him as love and with love in our hearts.
Alan & Shirley Bailey
Victoria, BC. Canada
Claudia Lockwood
July 6, 2012
God is thrilled to have his son Rodney Ross Romney home with Him! What a wonderful and gentle pastor to all. I delighted in his sermons at Seattle First Baptist and brought as many of my friends as I could to hear him. I was not a Baptist, but a firm Romneyite, and felt his opening his church to all put him out in front of the Social Justice initiatives that are just now gaining support in churches. He was definitely a man leading the way, with love and care and concern for all. We will all miss him.
gail hinand
July 6, 2012
Beverly -
We pray for the completd life of Rod; he has joined the Saints, including long time friends and supporters Theron and Lillian Duerfeldt. We shall miss them all.
Gail Duerfeldt Hinand
Martha Sharp
July 5, 2012
I only had the opportunity to meet Rod once, but in reading "Wilderness Spirituality," listening to his sermons, the beautiful music he composed, and hearing the tributes from so many others, I know what an amazing human being he was and the powerful impact he had on the people of Seattle and everywhere he served.
Karen (Lewis) Carlos
July 5, 2012
A pastor, a mentor and a friend. This gentle man gave so much. I was strengthened by his courage, challenged by his teaching, lightened by his humor and blessed by his friendship. My love and prayers to Beverly.
Rodney Daugherty
July 5, 2012
Dear Beverly,
My sincerest condolences on your loss. Though I am his name sake and he was a dear and close friend to all of our family, in recent years I can hardly come to bring myself to call him merely by his first name. The Reverend Dr. Rodney R. Romney was a humble but great man of God. I grieve at the loss so many of us feel at his passing though we also know he has gone home to eternal glory. I especially loved Reverend Romney's sense of humor!
Sincerely yours.
Rod
Sharis Woodard
July 4, 2012
Happy to hear that Rod has finished his Earthly assignment and is now in the Presence and Infinite Love of God in Heaven.
Sorry for Bev, who was lucky to share so much of her life with him. May she receive all the comfort and support she needs from all who knew them. I know Rod and God will be there for her now and until she is with them again.
Sorry for the many people here on Earth who loved and respected Rod. May we all still feel his presence and God's when ever necessary. May our hearts be filled with Peaceful Loving memories.
Loving prayers from Sharis and Annabelle Woodard in California.
Gerry O'Keefe
July 4, 2012
I have never been a baptist, but I found a spiritual home at Seattle First Baptist Church during Dr. Romney's time there. We are both re-imagined Mormons, seeking the divine in life beyond the rigid orthodoxy of the LDS church. My wife and children would regularly drive from Olympia to hear him advocate for a loving, open-minded, curious and inclusive God. I feel I've lost a soul mate, though I haven't seen Dr. Romney since his last sermon in Seattle. God be with you, my dear friend.
Janet Dowell
July 4, 2012
Rod was a part of my life for 12+ years while he was at Seattle First Baptist Church. Rarely does a person of such courage, strength, compassion, humility, and humor grace our midst, and Rod was the best of all of these. He forever influenced my life, and touched my soul deeply, as I know he did for so many. My condolences to Beverly, another beautiful soul.
David Greenhow
July 4, 2012
It was such an honor to know this great man and learn from his wisdom. My sincere condolences to his family and many loved ones.
Verne Duncan
July 3, 2012
Sixty + years of friendship that covered our college days, teaching in Arco, being involved in the selection of our spouses, (I remember telling Rod the night he met Beverly that he wasn't getting any younger and that she was a great "catch and he'd better not lose her"), he performed our marriage ceremony, and the friendship went on and on to the end. Within the past few weeks we journeyed through the Little Lost River Valley where Rod grew up to visit his boyhood home area, the place where the one room schoolhouse had stood and as we drove by each ranch he remembered who had lived there and his memories of them. What a great day it was for both of us. I loved the man and will miss him, greatly.
Al Johnson
July 3, 2012
I will never forget my "1st" Pastor, Rev. Rod Romney. He Baptised me when I was only a 7 year old boy. I enjoyed many of his sermons growing up in The Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church. Although both my parents preceeded him, I am sure they would want me to share this with you, because he and his wife are and will be forever apart of The Lakeshore Family!
Rest in Peace Rod. We love you.
formally known as "Lil Al".
Lorna Aites
July 3, 2012
I will miss Rod's wonderful sense of humor, the ease with which we could talk, the generosity with which he shared the truths of his own heart and made space for others to do the same... He gave so much to the world in his life and will continue to do so long into the future. The many lovely and loving stories he told from his life are embedded in my heart, forever a part of my life. Blessings to him on his journey.
Beverly, you are, and have been, in my thoughts and prayers... Love and blessings to you.
Caroline Sutherland
July 3, 2012
This is the passing of a great master. I was very much impacted by Rod Romney during the times I spent at First Baptist Church in Seattle and with him on several retreats. He had a wise, steady way about him. His sermons were powerful and meaningful. Very special messages. I will remember Rod with great fondness.
Clark Crawford
July 3, 2012
What a Joy to know this man. My first encounters with him was by the wonderful attribute we have in our recent culture, modulated radio-waves. Early Sunday mornings radiating from Seattle came his Inspiring, sensible messages that resonated so well in my psyche and understanding. Secondly a few visits to Seattle First Baptist Church where he was officiating in person reinforced my appreciation for him. Thirdly to have him visit at my home at a time Carole Glenn had arranged for him to Baptize a group on the premises which resulted in an enduring connection to this magnificent well spoken person, so dear to so many. He painted a grand informational tapestry for us to admire that is always available in the hallways of our memories.
Jeff Eaton
July 3, 2012
Rod was a genuine trail blazer. I remember fondly how he would make time for me to visit him in his study at Seattle First Baptist to talk about my worries and questions about spirituality. Rod had a huge compassionate heart and he made it okay to struggle with doubt and fear. He helped me realize facing fear is part of the spiritual exploration. I will always be grateful for his generosity as a teacher and example.
Richard Reese
July 3, 2012
I am greatly saddened by the death of Rod. He was a friend, mentor and confidant. His voice though not always appreciated by some, but loved by me and many will be greatly missed by ABC USA.
Daniel and Carolyn Franklin
July 3, 2012
Rod was a spiritual touchstone for many who pondered his writings, sermons and hymns. They are his legacy and will continue to instruct us in this journey. Beverly, you are in our thoughts with love and compassion.
Daniel and Carolyn Franklin
Paul Roby
July 3, 2012
Rod was at Seattle First Baptist Church before my time there. Yet, his spirit and theology continue to influence this Church community, its character, and its mission. I thank God for Rod's gifts and leadership, and wish that God's Peace will be upon Rod and his famil.
Carole Glenn
July 3, 2012
Rod brought such inspiration and joy to so many through his thoughtful, loving words and actions. He teamed up with Rabbi Ted Falcon and Iman Jamal Rahman to show the world how those of various faiths might live together in loving harmony. He assisted in creating Seattle First Baptist Church as a Welcoming and Affirming Congregation. His influence will continue to spread from the 24 members of the Alohem spiritual community whom he baptized in a hot tub in Hansville, WA, in 1994, to all those who heard his sermons broadcast every Sunday in Seattle, to those who attended the Spiritual Life Retreats at Camp Indianola, WA, and heard him play the accordion and sing "Logger Lover" around the campfire. Much must be said about his beloved wife, Beverly, who totally supported him in every way. What a blessing they both have been in our lives! We know he will continue his work in the next world, but we will certainly miss his humble, loving, compassionate presence in this one!
Curt & Eunice Smith
July 3, 2012
Saddened for sure, as we learned of Rod's death. He was truly a spiritual guide. Peace to Beverly at this time and forever. Curt and Eunice Smith
Judy Pigott
July 3, 2012
Rod was a man of courage, creativity, humor and compassion. I was blessed to meet him, and to have his support as we began Personal Safety Nets. I'll be forever grateful --
David "Sky" Enroth
July 3, 2012
Rod Romney was my brother, friend, and spiritual mentor. He was a prophetic mystic who was hard-wired to God. I often thought of him as a modern-day Jesus. His life embodied the virtue of unconditional love. I will miss him greatly. He was a transformational spiritual influence to me and many.
Gary Magnuson
July 3, 2012
Rod was a great guy, delivering calm and peace to those around him. I met Rod when he was a Trustee at Linfield College. His spirit will carry forward in all whom he met and knew. I am currently a Linfield Trustee and will miss him.
July 3, 2012
We are so saddened to hear of Rod's passing. He was our minister at our wedding at Seattle First Baptist. He will always be in our hearts and we'll laugh when we hear a crow! Prayers to Beverly during this time.
Brett and Jayne Bloomberg - Lynnwood WA
Rick and Sandy Mitchell
July 2, 2012
We are shocked and saddened to hear of Rod's passing. He was a hero to me and I know he inspired and was admired by many. Our condolences to Beverly and to all who knew Rod and shared the benefits of his wisdom, love, and openness to all people. Thanks, Rod!
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