Rodney Keith Johnson

Rodney “George” Keith Johnson, age 74, passed away after a valiant battle on November 12, 2025 in Regina, Saskatchewan.

Rod was born in Fulton, Mississippi on December 20, 1950. He is predeceased by his mother, Mary Allah Cochran, sister Janice, and brother, Ryan. He grew up with his sisters in Missouri and Arizona. His sister, Joanne (Scotty Anderson, children Sarah and Laura) still lives in Odessa, Texas.

He was gifted academically and became a baseball pitcher in the minor leagues. He trained for service in the army at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. In 1981, Rod was proud to become a Canadian citizen. He worked a variety of jobs, including crisis centre counsellor, Fyfe Parts, and Sears warehouse.

A huge fan of music (especially Bob Dylan and Rory Allen), he did his part singing karaoke and singing in Christmas choirs. He knew every trivia question, and could not be beat at Jeopardy or cribbage.

He is survived by his wife, Shelley (nee Melnyk), and children Britton (Kirk Cowman), Jordan, and Courtney (Mike Gosselin). Rod boasts eight grandchildren: Alixandra, Tyra, Liam, Emma, Luka, Caesar, Ruby, and Eden, and one great-grandchild, Kastor.

Loving extended family members include the Melnyks: Stacey, Craig, Linda, Chad, Kim, Elijah, Nevaeh and Jaxon. We are certain Rod has already reconnected with Melnyk family members who paved the path to heaven before him: Alfie and Dot, and beloved niece, Amanda.

Much love to the Olsons and Ketchemonia families for their unwavering support.The family would like to thank the caring staff at the William Booth Salvation Army care home where Rod was a resident for the last three years.

“We must laugh and we must sing, / We are blest by everything…” W.B.Yeats, The Winding Stair