Rodney Dale Nealey

Rodney Dale Nealey, 67, of Utica, passed away peacefully at home on May 27, 2026, with his wife by his side. Rod was a warrior in his battle against cancer, facing many difficult challenges with remarkable strength, courage, and determination. Though he fought hard for so long, he is now home, at peace, and fully healed.

Born in Atlanta, Rod spent his childhood in Roswell before later moving to Woodstock. He graduated from Etowah High School and later attended Southeastern Bible College, where his love for Christ and deep study of the Bible continued to grow throughout his life.

Rod worked in the insurance and retail business before moving into the pest control industry for more than 25 years before retiring in March of 2026. Rod’s favorite tasks were keeping his customers happy and finding the eat locations for his co-workers. He was known for his strong work ethic, quick wit, kindness, and unwavering love for the Lord. Rod never met a stranger and always carried a smile on his face. He had a giving heart, a compassionate spirit, and a unique way of bringing a different perspective to every conversation. Many will remember his long, passionate sermons, his wisdom, and the way he openly shared his faith with others.

Rod and his beloved wife, Victoria Prevost Nealey, shared nearly 20 wonderful years of marriage together. They were blessed to spend many years living in Germany, where they traveled throughout Europe creating cherished memories together. They also spent several years living in El Paso, traveling throughout the Southwest where he developed a love for German steins and Southwestern design.

More than anything, Rod loved his family. As a father, he was always seeking out an adventure to take his children on. Whether it be a dirt road that he’s never been down before (Pre-GPS days), an impromptu trip to Graceland in Memphis, a detour for a good fishing spot, or a hole-in-the-wall restaurant that always seemed to make the best burgers, he was always making the most of time together and providing memories that last a lifetime. He succeeded at that, exponentially, and repeatedly. He always taught his kids that people and memories are what matter, and not material, frivolous, replaceable objects. Anyone that met him knew that he lived his life this way, and was truly someone who “walked the walk”. We couldn’t have asked for a better father, friend and example of how to live our lives.

He was known to his grandchildren as Papa Rod, Opa, and best friend. His steady presence, humor, wisdom, and loving heart will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The world feels a little quieter without him in it, but his faith, love, and legacy will continue through the many lives he touched.

Rodney is survived by his mother, Polly Grice Nealey; his wife, Victoria Prevost Nealey; his children, Josiah Daniel Nealey, Bethany Nealey Rowles (Joshua), and Ethan Perry Nealey (Brandy); his Mississippi children, Emily Montgomery Hunt (Chris) and Stephen Montgomery (Bradley); his grandchildren, Josiah Daniel Nealey, Jr., Ivory Nealey, Ethan Rowles(Hailee) and Joshua Rowles, Jr., Rylan and Maryellen Montgomery, Colton and Caden House, and Lila and

Ella Hunt; one great-grandchild, Mason Rowles; his brother, Steve Nealey (Sandy); along with many extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, John Patton Nealey.

Visitation will be held Friday, May 29, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Utica Christian Church, located at 316 Main Street. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m., with burial immediately afterward at Utica Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Ethan Nealey, Stephen Montgomery, Joshua Rowles, Rylan Montgomery, Joshua Nealey, and Grant Bruneau. Honorary Pallbearers: The Elders of the Utica Christian Church

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Utica Christian Church in memory of Rod Nealey.

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