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Rodney Mitchell Obituary
Rodney Tyrone Mitchell, of Denton, TX passed away suddenly at age 45 on February 26, 2018 at his home. Rodney was born October 8, 1972, to Marvel and Joyce Mitchell in San Antonio, TX.
Rodney grew up in San Antonio and graduated from Highlands High School, where he played football and served on student council. Rodney moved to Denton to attend the University of North Texas where he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees and went on to serve thousands of students. He worked at UNT in a variety of roles for 25 years in student housing, as the Director of Student Support Services, and the Director of the Upward Bound Program. He also worked briefly for the City of Denton as the Assistant to the City Manager. Since 2013, he has served UNT as the Associate Dean of Students. Rodney made a major impact in the university and community he loved and he touched thousands of lives as a generous, caring servant of others.
Rodney met his wife Melanie Ann Wilde at UNT and the two married on March 25, 2000 in Denton. Rodney and Melanie served for many years at the Denton Church of Christ at Welch Street, on the UNT campus, and Singing Oaks Church of Christ.
Rodney is survived by his wife, Melanie Ann Wilde Mitchell, and son, Hayden Mitchell of Denton, TX; his mother, Joyce Mitchell, of San Antonio, TX; his father, Marvel Mitchell, of Austin, TX; and his brother, Zachary Mackey (Ling), of Blacksburg, VA and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Rodney will be remembered and loved forever by his family and a multitude of friends.
Visitation will be held on Friday, March 2, 2018 from 6-8 P.M. Funeral services will be Saturday, March 3, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. both will be held at Singing Oaks Church of Christ in Denton.
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Memories and Condolences
for Rodney Mitchell
Sponsored by Bill DeBerry Funeral Directors - Denton.
Cindy Stride
February 22, 2020
Rodney left the GREATEST of legacies. Lives have been changed. People (family members, friends, students, professional colleagues, Denton and the UNT communities), are BETTER because he CHANGED all for the good. Because LOVE is the greatest legacy, Rodney's memory, based on his selfless contributions to others, lives on. When I 'see' Rodney in my mind's eye, it is ALWAYS with his BEAUTIFUL, heartfelt smile. We loved you Rodney; we love you still. R.I.P.
LaToya Jackson
February 25, 2019
It's never easy losing a family member. Just remember the good times, memories and love that was shared among each and every one of you. God bless!!
LaToya Jackson
April 11, 2018
Mr. Rodney Mitchell was a very helpful man to the incoming freshman students of UNT. I appreciate him helping me with my daughter as she transition into her new college life. Thank you for all the help. Your work with the school and the community will never go unnoticed! God has truly given us an angel here on Earth. THANK YOU!
dianne Newman
April 4, 2018
Rodney Mitchell was one of the most honorable men I knew. He worked diligently with Upward Bound students and eventually became Director of the Program. Then moved on to his latest position. I think he had so much more to give to so many. My thoughts will always be with him and his family, Melanie and Hayden. Dianne Newman
dianne newman
April 4, 2018
I love and miss Rodney.
From the first time I met him, I was told by a co-worker that we must hire him for Upward Bound. We did and eventually be Director of Upward Bound. The students loved him as well as his co workers. His death
and the long term consequences of his wise input will be missed deeply.
My love and caring to his family. Dianne Newman
Romney ellen Guy
March 4, 2018
I knew Rodney through my work with UNT housing. Rodney was a caring and inspiring individual. He will be missed. My thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.
Misty McNairn
March 3, 2018
Melanie, my thoughts and prayers are with you and Hayden at this difficult time. I will always remember back when we went to Welch Street Church and how kind and loving Rodney was to everyone. He was truly a one of a kind servant and will be missed by so many.
Carolyn Blevins
March 2, 2018
Melanie,
My heart breaks for you and Hayden. Please know that you have the support of so many. You are in my prayers.
Linda Hawk
March 2, 2018
I am so sad and heartbroken to hear of Rodney's passing. It had been a few years since I'd seen Rodney, but his spirit was so always warm and welcoming that it seems like yesterday. He was truly a good, Godly man and unforgettable. Blessings to Melani, Hayden and family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Linda Hawk
March 2, 2018
I am so sad and heartbroken to hear of Rodney's passing. It had been a few years since I'd seen Rodney, but his spirit was so always warm and welcoming that it seems like yesterday. He was truly a good, Godly man and unforgettable. Blessings to Melanie and Hayden. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Zechariah Tillman-David
March 2, 2018
My friend , mentor , and father figure. i will miss you truely.
Dr. Will Nicklas
March 2, 2018
So sorry to learn of Rodney's untimely passing. He was a great mentor to many, many young people.
Shari (Scott) Jackson
March 1, 2018
I knew Rodney from middle school and was shocked and saddened to hear the news from another childhood friend. Rodney was a sweet, generous boy, and I see he remained so as a man. We had not seen each other in many, many years, but I have nothing but fond memories of him. Deepest condolences to his wife and son and other loved ones. Peace,
Valerie (Green) Sennette
March 1, 2018
Rodney was always an encouraging and supportive to the students, their families and UNT staff. It was always a delight to always see him on or off campus. My prayers for his family and the UNT community. Heavens gain is our earthly loss.
Jacqualine Stringer
March 1, 2018
My condolences to the family. I met Rodney during my College Inn days. He always had a smile and had an awesome spirit. Very nice person! God is definitely receiving an angel.
Lelia Howell
March 1, 2018
He was working with UpWard Bound when my daughter was in that group. Rodney was always kind and looked after "his kids". He made time for the parents to help us understand things. he had a good sense of humor and was a delightful person. I am so sorry that he has left this world. His type of giving and kind person is more rare these days. he will be missed and fondly remembered. The Howell Family Skipper, Lelia & Veronica
Diana Forson
March 1, 2018
Rodney was a bright light. His smile could light up a room and his laugh could make everyone feel his exuberance for life. I will miss him. Heaven must have needed some uplifting to have let Rodney leave us so soon. Praying for his family that they may get through these tough times easier knowing that Rodney meant to much to so many.
Bill DeBerry, Jr. & Andrew DeBerry
March 1, 2018
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Kristen Hubbard Davis
February 28, 2018
Rodney was such a beautiful person. I just cannot imagine a world without him. I was lucky enough to call him my friend and to be so very close to Melanie - we were bridesmaids in each other's weddings. Rodney never failed to hug me each time we saw each other. His contagious smile and huge heart were welcome 22 years ago when I moved into the dorm and he moved into my life. Rodney's legacy lives on in all of us, but especially Melanie and Hayden. I know you're on the inside of those pearly gates watching over those you love. May that bring comfort to your wife, son, family and friends. You'll be in my heart forever.
Kathy Hawk Byrom
February 28, 2018
Heaven may be rejoicing, but we are saddened to have him gone from us so soon. He was always a ray of sunshine at Denton Church of Christ. My thoughts & prayers are with his family during this difficult time. Losing a loved one is never easy- or welcome. May the Lord protect & richly bless all those he left behind!
Jenny Jacquot Knight
February 28, 2018
It was 26 years ago when I met Rodney at UNT, and I immediately knew there was something amazing about him. He was smart, funny, and caring. As I grew to know him better, I saw that he was a loyal friend who would do anything to help a person in need. I was so happy to attend his wedding to Melanie and then later to hear that they had grown their family with a son. Rodney was like a brother to me, and my heart will never let him go.
Cindy Stride
February 28, 2018
Words fail to capture the profound depth of Rodney's legacy. He was such a BEAUTIFUL human being. A compassionate, generous, joyful man, a loving father and husband, and dedicated professional. He positively altered and impacted the lives of HUNDREDS. It is amazing to behold, what he accomplished in 45 short years. Our lives are richer for having known him, worked with him, and loved him. Rodney's legacy WILL NEVER be forgotten.
Robert Hanna
February 28, 2018
I knew Rodney through UNT and the City of Denton. He was an exceptional man. The world lost a good man. May God's love fill your hearts with consolation during this difficult time.
Andrew Collins
February 28, 2018
One of the most caring and loving individuals I've had the honor of calling my brother. My heart aches for Melanie and Hayden, but we know Rodney has gone to be with our loving God. A man whose smile could light up any room, whose arms were always open for a hug, and hands that were outstretched to help anyone in need.
Well done good and faithful servant.
Robert & Betty Tuggle
February 28, 2018
Melanie, our hearts and prayers are with you and Hayden at this sad time. May God wrap His loving arms around you and Hayden with peace and comfort.
Jennifer and Mike Niemietz
February 28, 2018
Our deepest sympathy to family and friends, Rodney was a very sweet guy. We remember him fondly from Highlands. He was all about doing good.
Katie (Milligan) Wilson
February 28, 2018
I am so sad to hear about the loss of Rodney. He was a friend from high school. My prayers are with his entire family. May the Lord give you strength to get through this difficult time.
Casey Heim
February 28, 2018
Melanie, My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. I'll pray for peace during this storm. - Casey Upton Heim
Tammi Love
February 28, 2018
So blessed to have known this sweet, kind, and gentle man. I am heartbroken for his loving family
TINA EVANS-COLEMAN
February 28, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Merry Grace
February 28, 2018
My love and prayers sent to all Rodney's loved ones. You made a huge impact on all those you came in contact with Rodney and you will be missed by many. Fly high #72 - you will not be forgotten. Thanks for the memories.
Debra Simmons
February 28, 2018
Holding your family in my prayers. He will be missed by many.
Terry Collins
February 28, 2018
Our love and sympathy to Melanie and Hayden, and to all this family. Rodney walked as a spiritual giant among men. He blessed all who came to know him.
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