Cody Wayne Anderson

Cody Wayne Anderson, age 17, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on January 26, 2026, after a lifetime of medical complexities. Now healed and at peace in the arms of Jesus, Cody leaves behind a legacy not defined by his challenges, but by joy, connection, and a presence that filled every room.

Cody was born on May 28, 2008, in Columbia, Missouri, to his parents, Casey Anderson and Dawn Rice. He lived his life surrounded by family who loved him deeply and worked tirelessly to give him every opportunity for happiness.

Cody loved music, especially live music. Church was one of his favorite places to be, where he could listen and feel the music around him. At home and everywhere else, Cody had his favorite toy radio. It played several songs, and Cody would quickly flip through each one until he reached his favorite, the ABC song. That radio went everywhere with him. He slept with it, carried it with him, and found comfort in its familiar sounds. His mother, Dawn, made sure he never went without it, buying a new one anytime she saw them in a store, just in case.

Though his communication was limited, Cody used sign language and his alternative communication device to express himself. Most of the time, his bright blue eyes and huge smile said everything he needed to say.

He enjoyed watching game shows like Wheel of Fortune and spent time loving Minecraft. Cody wanted to be where the people were. He thrived in the middle of things and was often called a favorite everywhere he went. People loved having him around just as much as he loved being with them.

Cody loved his hospital family, who took wonderful care of him throughout his life. Their compassion, dedication, and skill allowed Cody to live far longer than expected, and his family is deeply grateful for the care and love they showed him every step of the way.

Car rides were one of his greatest joys. He would use his device to ask to go whenever his mom left the house. Cody loved being outside, taking everything in, and living fully in each moment. He was mischievous, spunky, and genuinely happy.

Cody was also an organ donor. Anyone who has been touched by organ donation understands how meaningful that gift is. Through his donation, Cody's legacy will continue, carrying his light forward into the lives of others, just as he did every day of his life.

Cody is survived by his parents, Dawn and Gary Rice of Columbia, Missouri, and Casey and Korrie Anderson of Fulton, Missouri. He is also survived by his grandparents, Dale and Tami Anderson and Martha Dencker. He leaves behind his siblings Dawson Anderson, Daniel Anderson, Andrew Rice, Nicholas Rice, Mason Anderson, Dalayna Anderson, Cassidy Anderson, Natalie Rice, and Kaylee Anderson, along with many extended family members who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Ray Dencker.

Services will be held at Parker Millard Funeral Service and Crematory on February 7, 2026. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with a celebration of Cody's life to follow at 12:00 p.m.