Rodney Keith Stapler

Rodney Keith Stapler was born to A.G. and Jerlene Stapler August 20, 1961. He flew away home with Jesus peacefully on February 21, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, A.G. and Jerlene Stapler, brother Larry D. Stapler, father-in-love, Carl D. Lambert, and brother-in-love, David C. Lambert.

Survivors include his wife, Melanie Lambert Stapler, his children, Stephen Carl and Brianna Bianchi Stapler, granddaughters Haley and Sydney, his mother-in-love Melba Kittle Lambert, bonus children, Kyle and Jenny Norman and bonus granddaughter, Clara, brothers Phillip (Lyn) Stapler and Scott Stapler, and nephew Sha Stapler, niece Monica Lambert Collins (Kane) and grand-nephew, Connor.

Rodney accepted Jesus June 17, 1979 at Abilene Baptist Church.

Rodney graduated from Villa Rica High School in 1980. He enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country from 1980 to 1984. He was stationed on the USS Ranger and was present in the Persian Gulf during the Iranian Hostage Conflict. After serving his country, Rodney spent most of his career as a welder until 2011 when he slowed down and went to work part-time at Publix in produce. Rodney retired March 29, 2021 to prepare for Melanie’s retirement two months later. He enjoyed messing around with old cars and had a 1955 Chevy pick-up truck longer than he was married! Rodney loved laughing and joking around with family and friends. 

A graveside service will be conducted Saturday, February 28, at 3:00 p.m. at Abilene Cemetery with Reverend Billy Godwin officiating.

Rodney will be sorely missed by all who loved him until we meet again in Heaven.

Messages of condolence can be made to the family by signing the online guestbook/tribute wall. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Carroll County Animal Shelter or your favorite animal rescue group.

Hutcheson-Croft Funeral Home of Temple is honored to serve the Stapler family.