Rodney Duane Nunley's Obituary
Rodney Duane Nunley valiantly completed his mortal probation December 18, 2020. He passed away at American Fork Hospital in American Fork, Utah of complications from Coronavirus. He was born September 16, 1952 to Henry C. Nunley, Jr. and Aloha Sutton Hill at Carswell Air Force Base in Fort Worth, Texas. As a toddler, he suffered a traumatic brain injury. Though it limited his life activities, Rodney grew in faith and love and remained a dedicated disciple of Christ until the end. He loved his family and was charitable towards others even though in need himself.
During his early years, his family lived in Germany. A country to which his elder brother, Charles, returned during his military service and then again, after retirement. While both were in high school, Charles gave Rodney the moniker, Hot Rod – a nickname that always brought a smile to Rodney.
Through hard work, dedication, and perseverance Rodney graduated from Tarrant County Junior College. He relocated to Salt Lake City to be in close proximity to his younger brother and his family and to be within walking distance of the Family History Library and the Salt Lake Temple. Prior to physical limitations imposed by Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) he served faithfully in the Salt Lake Temple for many years.
Rodney searched out his ancestors and assembled hundreds of thousands of names alphabetically in index card storage boxes to which he referred daily.
Rodney’s generous heart compelled him to save all year in order to buy Christmas gifts for others that he could not afford for himself. When presented with a gift of clothing, he demonstrated his gratitude and love for the giver by wearing the gift when meeting. His concern for others was greater than the concern he had for himself.
Every holiday found him asking his niece, Amy, what she wanted to do. He played the games she wanted to play over and over because she was important to him. In his humble circumstances, he gave to others, especially his beloved Amy.
Birds were his primary indulgence and provided companionship throughout the years. He enjoyed collecting coins, wrestling, football, and the NASA channel.
Rodney will be missed by those who were a part of his life. His shining example of compassion and simple obedience will not be forgotten.
He is survived by his brother, Henry Clay (Laurel), his beloved niece, Amy N. Cebrowski (John), and his great-nephew, Michael. The 11:00 am funeral service is by invitation and scheduled for Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at his home stake center. Interment is at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Salt Lake City, Utah.
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