Rodney Cannedy Obituary
Rodney Carroll Cannedy was born January 30, 1941 in Wichita Falls, TX, the son of Joy (Reddin) and Orbie Carroll Cannedy. He lived in Abilene from 1966 to 1988 and moved to Huntsville, TX to become chief psychologist for TDC from 1989 to 1998. Rod was the youngest psychologist to be licensed in the State of Texas at the time of licensure. He was president of various local professional organizations during his career. He was Supervising Psychologist for State of Texas Dept. of Corrections, Head of Psychology Dept. at Hardin Simmons University beginning in 1968, Supervising Psychologist for out-patient clinic at Forrest Professional Institute of Psychology, Springfield, MO 1999-2004. Dr. Cannedy ran for Taylor County Judge in 1974 and was the Taylor County Campaign Manager for George H. W. Bush in 1974. He gave Ronnie Dunn his first singing job in the band while Ronnie was still at ACU. Rod was a singer and writer of songs. He signed and recorded for Sun Records in Memphis Tennessee in the 50's. One of his greatest joys of his adult life was his tenure as senior minister at Nixa Christian Church, Nixa, Missouri.
Survivors include his wife, Sharon Cannedy; three sons, Shane Cannedy, Cory Cannedy and Randy Riggs and wife, Beatriz Ortega-Lopez; four daughters, Brenda Klimpel and husband Dan, Sandra Wills and husband Greg, Tricia Cannedy and Shannon Colyer and husband Jerry Colyer; brother, Tim Harris; and 12 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by father, Orbie Cannedy; mother, Joy Reddin Cannedy Harris; three brothers, Ray, James and Robbie Cannedy.
Memorials may be made to Hendrick Hospice Care, 1682 Hickory St., Abilene, TX 79601.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Shane Cannedy
October 9, 2010
I miss you, Dad. Looks like there are many who miss you.
Ann Nimmo-Smith
October 2, 2010
Sharon , you are in my thoughts and prayers. I know that God is with you and will continue to guide you in this difficult time.
Don and Cathy Wylie
September 27, 2010
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Rachel Cox
September 26, 2010
Richard and I both send our love to Sharon and his family. He will certainly be missed by all whose lives he touched.
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David Whitten
September 24, 2010
I would also like to express my condolences to the family for their loss.
September 24, 2010
I worked for Rod Cannedy during the period when he was the Chief Psychologist at TDCJ. I have many wonderful stories to share about his larger than life persona. When Rod walked into a room, his presence was felt, immediately. We shared a love for music. I am lucky to own a recording of Rod singing and playing with his son. The timbre of his voice reminded me of Johnny Cash, someone I know he admired. I will never forget the tour he gave me of the Forrest Professional Institute in Springfield. He dropped what he was doing and showed me the way like he did so many other times. What a great man.
September 23, 2010
Rod loss hit me thunder. I was fortunate to have worked with him in Texas prison, in his shadow, he was a teacher, a mentor, a humanitarian, a comedian and a family man with the greatest zest for life. His heart was as big as Texas. He was taller in stature, a rare human being with unconditional compassion for all, be it his patients or colleagues. Rod had a great magic about him, you never approached him without walking away feeling that he has touched your heart and soul. Despite his immense knowledge he was humble enough to listen and ask for your opinion. Rod was the best none directive therapist I ever known.
Like an Olive tree his lessons will endure, through his unique approaches and many phrases of his I memorized. I do believe in and accepts Gods faith, despite the pain of his loss, like many others I walk in his path, guided by his spirit. I live with satisfaction that he heaven, among Gods chosen looking down upon us all,waiting for a future reunion and some catching up to do.Knowing him, he may be reading, writing a few poems and introducing the crowd above to some good country western music, May God bless him; bless his family and all those who were touched by him.
Hussein Gadban
September 23, 2010
Rod loss hit me thunder. I was fortunate to have worked with him in Texas prison, in his shadow, he was a teacher, a mentor, a humanitarian, a comedian and a family man with the greatest zest for life. His heart was as big as Texas. He was taller in stature, a rare human being with unconditional compassion for all, be it his patients or colleagues. Rod had a great magic about him, you never approached him without walking away feeling that he has touched your heart and soul. Despite his immense knowledge he was humble enough to listen and ask for your opinion. Rod was the best none directive therapist I ever known.
Like an Olive tree his lessons will endure, through his unique approaches and many phrases of his I memorized. I do believe in and accepts Gods faith, despite the pain of his loss, like many others I walk in his path, guided by his spirit. I live with satisfaction that he heaven, among Gods chosen looking down upon us all,waiting for a future reunion and some catching up to do.Knowing him, he may be reading, writing a few poems and introducing the crowd above to some good country western music, May God bless him; bless his family and all those who were touched by him.
Barbara & Bill George
September 20, 2010
Sharon,
We were so sorry to hear about Rod's passing. Your family has and always will be dear to our family. I think Rod greatly influenced Kat to become what she has become. She is very close to finishing her PHD at University of Texas. His gentle, loving drawl will forever remain etched in our memory. You, Shane, Shannon and all of your family remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Barbara Kipfer
September 17, 2010
Sharon, I know you took wonderful care of your dear husband. His illness came too soon, but the life he was given was well lived. May your faith, loving family and friends and shared memories comfort you. Barbara Kipfer (retired preadmission colleague)
September 15, 2010
Sharon and family, I am so very sorry for your loss. I am thankful for the blessing of Rod's friendship, support, understanding, and encouragement in my personal life, work, and on community boards. He was a stead fast friend during the challenges and changes. He lived his life as a role model, truly a human being and expressing love to all. Rod was and continues to be a blessing to my life. I know you will miss him. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Jim Matthews, Springfield, Missouri
September 14, 2010
I wish to thank all of you who have sent such touching condolences. It is so re-assuring to know that Rod is being remembered for his kind spirit, wisdom, and down home sense of humor. He was a true mentor and teacher with a special love for all of his students, both young and old. I feel blessed that he chose to share the last 23 years with me at his side. Your kind words are greatly appreciated. Sharon
Nancy (Worrell) Stockstill
September 14, 2010
Rodney and I dated Sophomore year... I lived in Quanah and we sent notes back and forth daily from Chilli to Quanah by Joe Shorts - the local disc jockey at KOLJ.. I attended church with him in Chilli and remember eating Sunday dinner watching their new TV tuned to Oral Roberts healing services; his folks getting a "pink" olds; and putting many a mile on that 52 Ford convertible that his maternal grand-mother gave him. We corresponded some while he was in Memphis and I was at NMSU... then lost contact. It was a fun time to be a teenager in the 50s - my sincere sympathy to Rodney's family. I'll never forget him..
September 13, 2010
Dear Sharon and Family, We were sadden to hear of Rod's death. We know that he is no longer suffering as he has for a long time.
Just know, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love and prayers,
John and Mary Pruis
September 12, 2010
Sharon, we were sorry to hear of your loss. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Ed & Mary Brown, Paul & Nancy Brown (Marionville, MO)
September 12, 2010
Blessings to all of Rodney's family. I knew him only as a teenager in Chillicothe, where we enjoyed swimming on hot summer days. His mother and my mother were also friends. We dated a short time, until he missed a corner on a gravel road in his 1954 Ford convertible....no wheels, no more dates! He was such a sweet spirit even in his teens and brought the Light to many of us. I have thought of him many times in the last 52 years. I am happy to read he has such a happy and rewarding life and no doubt, continued to touch many souls. He touched mine. Blessings, Jeanene Stermer, Medicine Mound, Tx
September 12, 2010
Sharon and Family,
Our sincerest sympathies go out to all of you during this time. Rod was truly a great inspiration; we enjoyed his sermons, humor and singing very much. He will be missed by many.
Dave & Vicki Williams (Battlefield, MO)
Michelle Byrd
September 12, 2010
To Dr. Cannedy's family I would like to send my condolences. Dr. Cannedy, or "Hot Rod", as he let me call him, was a great influence in my life. I can't say enough about just how good he was at his job. I will always cherish my time with him.
Lisette Cannedy
September 12, 2010
It is with great sorrow that I heard about Rod's passing, Sandra, Shane, Brenda and Mary-Ellen and Sharon my heart goes out to all of you. Rod was one of a kind and is probably entertaining folks in heaven right now...
Ellen Mitchell
September 12, 2010
Sharon and Family,
I am praying for you and remembering Rod and his smile. Feel my hugs.
God bless,
Ellen Mitchell
September 11, 2010
I am so sorry to learn of Rod's passing. We met while we were both doing some part-time work for the West Texas Rehabilitation Center in the 1960s. His common touch and musical abilities helped him connect with the most difficult of clients.May God comfort all of his loved ones.
Roy A. Jones II
Abilene
Cory Cannedy
September 11, 2010
“Love is stronger than death even though it can't stop death from happening, but no matter how hard death tries it can't separate people from love. It can't take away our memories either. In the end, life is stronger than death.� When everybody gave up on me Sharon and dad never did, They supported me in my darkest times. Dad its hard knowing you will not be their anymore. You were always my rock and the person I always wanted to be. I love you and will miss you.
September 11, 2010
Dear Sharon, I write this with mixed feelings,hate to see Rod go but thankful that he is free from pain. Have so many wonderful memories of our dear pastor and his faithful wife. Marlin joins me in sending sympathy to you and your family. Gloria Barcomb - Goodbye Rod see you later.
September 11, 2010
Dear Sharon,
Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I'm very sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Kathryn Wells,RN, from your Springfield hospice family
September 11, 2010
Sharon, So sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers. Donnie and Lenda Mooneyham
Rod officiating our wedding 10.15.05
Karla Myers
September 11, 2010
Sharon,
Although we will miss Rod, I am sure he is two-stepping in Heaven pain-free and care-free. My thoughts of Rod always include his "jug-band" ministry which brought so much joy to many, especially my dad. It makes me smile to remember! Rod (and you) were there for some very important times in my life...my dad's illness and death, my marriage to Bill, and the baptism of my children. I always enjoyed his sense of humor and appreciated his understated wisdom. I send you a hug and a prayer for the comfort of the Father's arms.
Love-Karla Myers
September 10, 2010
Sharon, our deepest and sincere sympathies for your loss.
Bob and Deborah Ward
September 10, 2010
May good memories and God's love help to sustain you during this time of loss. Rod was a great influence on me during the late 1960s when I took three of his psychology courses at Hardin-Simmons. I learned things in his classes that I have used throughout my life, and I know I was only one of many impressionable students that he inspired. I am grateful.
Gary June
September 10, 2010
Almost eight years have past since graduating from Forest Institute. I consider myself honored to have briefly known Dr. Cannedy. My memories will be of him as the quintessential Texas storyteller/preacher. As I reflect back, it seems Rod's time at Forest was part of a story; his presence was the moral. He was a good man.
September 10, 2010
Dear Sharon and family,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Rod was one of my colleagues at Forest Institute. He was wonderfully liked by the students and he was a great asset to the Forest Community at large.
AnnElise Parkhurst
Gwen Evans
September 10, 2010
Sharon,
Very few people have the compassion, courage, insight, keen sense of humor and deep faith that Rod had. You have it also. I wish I could have spent more time around Rod and known him earlier. Yet, in just those few times, I could see what a truly great man he was. To see the value and good in those that others don't recognize is a God given gift. He had it, as you do, in abundance. What a legacy to have helped so many.
September 10, 2010
Sharon, I am so sorry for your loss and will be praying for you during this difficult time. Love, Joyce Mooneyham Gaither
The Younts
September 9, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Rod was a blessing to Nixa Christian Church and helped change so many lives.
Doug Worthington
September 9, 2010
From 1972 until 1989 we worked, played and laughed together. I have so many fond memories of the music, the laughs, the tears and fun. My heart goes out to Sandra, Brenda, Shane and Sharon. I have spoken of him and quoted him often over the intervening years. I will continue doing that. He was the best clinician I have ever known and great teacher. A friend I will miss even more.
Gina Malaer
September 9, 2010
Dear Sharon, Sandra, Brenda, Shane and Mary Ellen
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. I will always feel blessed by knowing Rod and will remember the laughter he brought to my life.
Gina Malaer
Delores Washburn, Ph.D.
September 9, 2010
Rod was a delightful colleague at Hardin-Simmons, always quick to smile or to simply bless us with his presence. May the Comforter be with each of you in the coming days with the assurance that you will once again hear his voice, knowing that the Lord has welcomed Rod home.
September 9, 2010
Sharon, So sorry to hear of Rod's death. He will be greatly missed. Ellen Parlier
ELAINE BRIDWELL
September 9, 2010
Dear Sandra and Mary Ellen Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rob and Elaine
Norman Pond
September 9, 2010
As a 1966 graduate of Chillicothe High School, I'd like to offer my sincerest sympathy at the news of Rodney's passing. Praying for God's blessings for his family...
Phillip Raleigh
September 9, 2010
He was Rod to most of us. A phone call to the Academic Building, it was "Cannedy" calling. He shared much of his life experiences with all of us, in class, in daily interactions, in supervision. His life experiences were too numerous to list, but he shared and taught us all a great deal. He had many stories to tell and each one as a guide along the way..to teach us, enrich us, and make life better. We are so thankful to have had the experience,and now, many memories to recall and enjoy. Thanks, Rod..you made a huge difference to a lot of people, students, staff, and those receiving psychological services.
Carolyn Burros and Phillip Raleigh
Forest Institute-Springfield, MO
Jana Golightly
September 9, 2010
I can't help but smile as I remember classes under Dr. Rod. May the Lord comfort the family.
John Lumb
September 9, 2010
Rod was a powerful speaker and great Pastor. He will truly be missed.
Keith Garner
September 9, 2010
We enjoyed taking courses from Dr. Cannedy and being his friend while Keith was stationed with the ROTC Department at Hardin-Simmons University from 1972-1977. He was always one of our favorite people.
He will be missed!
Keith and Barbara Garner
September 9, 2010
I am Jerry Flynn from Chillicothe ,Texas. Rodney and I were good friends during high school and had a band at the time. He was an excelent musician even then. He came to Chillicothe's homecoming many years ago when my band was playing at a barn dance on saturday night. He sang several songs with us and solo there. That will be something I will remeber always.
Very sorry for your lose.
September 9, 2010
I feel sad at the news of Rod's death. My prays and thoughts are with you. I have missed him when he left TDCJ and they have never replaced him. No one could. God bless.
September 9, 2010
Rod was one very fine man: I learned from him - enjoyed his personality - always valued his opinions deeply. He was calming, funny, and a true Texan. Les Bland
David Van Pelt, PsyD
September 9, 2010
To the family,
I am sorry to hear about the loss of your husband, father and grandfather. Rod was a person I considered myself honored to be thought of as a friend. He was also a mentor and a person I greatly respected. He will be missed for sure. His stories, while repeated, were great fun every time they were told. He was compassionate and understanding, but also knew where to draw the line and call BS when it was truly that. I learned a great deal from him both personally and professionally. I am sorry for your loss and my prayer is for comfort and strength for you during this time of grief. I am reminded of the words of the apostle John -- "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." - John 16:33
September 9, 2010
So sorry for your loss- he was a phenomenal man! I know he will be remembered for the many accomplishments he had, but even more so for being a loving and well-loved family man. ~Terri
Jack Barnes
September 9, 2010
Rod was a helpful part of the staff during several of the years I was Senior Minister of Nixa Christian Church. He was a loyal friend and noble colleague. I cherish many memories of his service beside me.
Terri Pyeatt
September 9, 2010
May your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times as you celebrate a life well lived.
Midge Barnes
September 9, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Judith R. Gonzalez
September 9, 2010
Dr. Cannedy was my mentor, instructor and supervisor at Forest Institute. He blessed my life in many ways and I so thankful that he was and he will continue being part of my life. God bless you!
September 9, 2010
Sharon, I wish I could be there to give you a hug and my sincere condolences in person. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sincerely,
Brenda Hummel, Nixa, MO
Kay Munhollon
September 9, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Dixie Pendland
September 9, 2010
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Gene and Pat Goebel
September 9, 2010
We will miss you so much and are thankful to have been Sharon's and your friends, as well as belonging to the church where you served in Nixa, MO. We will always cherish your friendship and miss you. With love and appreciation, Gene and Pat Goebel
Amy Ritz
September 9, 2010
I was blessed to have Rod help lead me to the Lord. He baptized me and that was the greatest thing that has happend in my life. The lord is good and Rod blessed many. Sharon my prayers are going to you.
Love Amy Ritz
September 9, 2010
Sharon,
I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that I care.
Julie Fraker
Lanae Dycus
September 9, 2010
Dear Shane, Brenda, Sandra and Mary Ellen I am so, so sorry. All my love to you.
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