William Rodney Windham

Tuscaloosa - Windham, William Rodney, age 79, a native of Springville, Alabama, and longtime resident of Tuscaloosa, died Sunday, January 14, 2024. A memorial service will be held at Christ Episcopal Church, Tuscaloosa, on Friday, January 19th at 11:00 o'clock in the morning. Reception will be immediately following the service in Randall Hall.

He was preceded in death by his parents, F.G. "Windy" and Frances (Simmons) Windham of Birmingham. Survivors include his beloved wife of almost 58 years, Gail (Read) Windham, of Tuscaloosa; his sister, Janice Windham, of Birmingham; his children, Read Windham (Kim) of Huntsville, Milla Windham, and Olivia May (Joe), both of Tuscaloosa; and grandchildren, Herren and Olivia Green of New York, New York, Franklin Green of Montgomery, Sims and Emery Windham of Huntsville, and Mary Windham and Virginia Tate May of Tuscaloosa.

Rodney attended and graduated from The Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and maintained a great affection for the school throughout his years. He received his Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees all in Mathematics from The University of Alabama. During his time at UA, was a member of Kappa Alpha Order and served as Number One in 1965. He continued to serve Kappa Alpha Order for many years as a dedicated alum. Rodney served alongside his wife Gail as inaugural chairs of The University of Alabama Arts and Sciences Leadership Board in 1994. He was an active member of Phoenix Club, Apollo Club, and Fifty Fools. He was also a longtime board member of Indian Hills Country Club and served as President of the Board.

Rodney was an actuary and started his career at Liberty National Life Insurance Company in Birmingham. In 1981, Rodney joined Alabama Reassurance Company in Tuscaloosa as Vice President and Actuary. After retirement, he taught actuarial science classes for several years at UA.

The University of Alabama and his family were Rodney's true passions. He was affectionately known as "RaRa" by his beloved grandchildren. He enjoyed life and lived it to the fullest. He will be remembered for his intellect, great stories, and endearing loyalty to his friends. Honorary pallbearers include friends and staff at Indian Hills Country Club 19th Hole, Carter Anthony, John Humber, Toby Silberman, Dr. Brian Wilhite, Dr. John R. Duffy, Dr. John Dubay, Hospice of West Alabama, and Amy Hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations from friends be made to The Windham Family Endowed Nursing Scholarship to benefit nursing students at The University of Alabama, Christ Episcopal Church, or the charity of their choice.