Rodney Edward Duplessis

Mr. Rodney Edward Duplessis, 72 of Acworth, Georgia passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. Funeral Service will be Tuesday, February 17,2026 at 11:00 AM at Mt. Zion AME, 4163 Wade Green Rd., Kennesaw, Georgia 30144. The family will receive friends and family Monday, February 16, 2026 from 6:00 to 7:00 PM at Mt. Zion AME, Kennesaw. Interment will follow at the Georgia National Cemetery, 1080 Scott Hudgens Dr., Canton, Georgia 30114. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this time of bereavement. This service will be LIVE-STREAMED.

Rodney Edward Duplessis was born on January 1, 1954, in Natchez, Mississippi, to the proud parents Edward Duplessis Jr. and Gloria Mary Duplessis. On February 7, 2026, he peacefully gained his heavenly wings and entered into the loving arms of his Heavenly Father, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Rodney accepted Christ at an early age and began his lifelong walk of faith at Oak Grove A.M.E. Church in Kentwood, Louisiana. His faith remained a guiding force throughout his life. He later became a devoted member of Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church in Kennesaw, Georgia, where he faithfully served as both a Trustee and a member of the choir. His dedication to service reflected his deep love for God and his church family.

Rodney's educational journey began in Kentwood, Louisiana, where he attended O.W. Dillon Elementary School and Westside High, Amite, Louisiana. After relocating to Jackson, Mississippi, he graduated from Provine High School. Soon after, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. Over the course of a distinguished 28-year military career (1972–2000), Rodney rose to the esteemed rank of Sergeant Major (E-9), the highest enlisted rank, exemplifying leadership, discipline, and unwavering commitment. He served honorably and earned the respect and admiration of all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

While serving in the military, Rodney remained committed to his education. He earned a Bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland and a Master's degree in Management from Troy State University. Following his retirement from the Army, he continued his legacy of service by obtaining his teacher certification and teaching Middle School Social Studies. He later shared his knowledge and experience as an Adjunct Professor at Saint Martin's University, inspiring countless students with his wisdom and life experiences.

Affectionately known as "Duke" among his military friends, Rodney was a man of strength, integrity, and warmth. After retiring from teaching, he found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved training dogs, collecting firewood, staying physically active, and traveling with his beloved wife. One of his greatest joys was spending quality time Face Timing his children, grandchildren, family, and friends. Rodney had a deep passion for sports and could often be found enjoying football, basketball, or baseball.

Even during times of health challenges, Rodney's resilience and positive spirit never wavered. He remained engaged, continued his cherished wood-collecting hobby, and always made time to talk with loved ones. His strength and faith were an inspiration to all who knew him.

Rodney leaves to cherish his precious memory his devoted and loving wife, Geraldine Askew-Duplessis; his children, Michael (Jasmine) Duplessis, Thomas (Junco) Duplessis, Regan Nicole Duplessis, and Marissa Robertson; three grandsons, Christian Duplessis, August Duplessis, and Jayce Duplessis; and two granddaughters, Tiana Duplessis and Jaide Duplessis. He was a proud and loving husband, father, and grandfather whose family was the center of his world.

He was preceded in death by his father, Mr. Edward Duplessis, Jr., and his brother, Marvin Alonzo Duplessis.

He will be deeply missed by his mother, Gloria Mary Duplessis of Marietta, Georgia; his siblings, Dr. Gloria Duplessis Robinson (David) of Florence, Mississippi; Ronald Duplessis of Marietta, Georgia; Richard Duplessis, Sr. of Marietta, Georgia; Wayne Duplessis of Kassel, Germany; Dr. Shelsea Duplessis Buckhaulter (Rico); Monique Duplessis Hughes; Linda Horne; Graylin Allison; Paula Duplessis of Clinton, Mississippi; and Dr. Kenneth Milton (Samantha) of Greenwood, Mississippi, Rachel Barksdale of Jackson, MS, Michael Smith of Charllotte, NC.; Stepmother, Suzan Duplessis of Florence, MS; along with his cherished aunts, Florence Charles of Cincinnati, Ohio; Carrie Lewis of New Orleans, Louisiana; Bonnie Duplessis of Palo Alto, California; Bobbie Jean Allison of Florence, Mississippi; his uncle, Bernel Duplessis (Camille) of New Orleans, Louisiana; and a host of beloved nephews, nieces, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Rodney's legacy of faith, service, leadership, and love will live on in all who were blessed to know him. Though he has departed this earthly life, his impact remains everlasting in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.mackeppingerfuneralhome.com

Mack Eppinger and Sons Funeral Service, Inc. are in charge of the arrangements.