Rodney D. Taylor Sr., Preacher

The journey of life for Minister Rodney D. Taylor, Sr. began on February 17, 1961, in Midland, Texas, where he was born to Helen Jewell Thompson and James "Butch" Taylor. From an early age, Rodney reflected the very best qualities of his family. He inherited a love for sports and a strong resemblance to his father, a compassionate and gentle spirit from his mother, and the determination and resourcefulness of his beloved grandmother, Minnie Taylor.

Rodney received his education through the Midland Independent School District, where he excelled both academically and athletically. His exceptional talent on the football field earned him a scholarship to Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, New Mexico.

Following his education, Rodney began a distinguished career with the United States Postal Service, faithfully serving for more than 30 years. He retired at the age of 55 as a Customer Service Supervisor, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, leadership, and dedication. Retirement was simply the beginning of another season of service. Rodney continued working in the community through positions at Midland College and Midland Memorial Hospital, where his servant's heart remained evident.

While Rodney enjoyed a successful professional career, his greatest calling was one of faith.

In 2003, Rodney was baptized at North Side Church of Christ by Minister Willie Cox. Soon afterward, under the careful guidance and mentorship of his father-in-law, Brother Curtis Wallace, Rodney began preaching his first sermons. God had already begun preparing him for a greater purpose.

In February 2021, Rodney accepted God's call to serve as the Full-Time Senior Minister of North Side Church of Christ. Following the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, Rodney, alongside the faithful brothers of the congregation, worked tirelessly to rebuild, strengthen, and encourage the church family. During his brief but impactful five years as Senior Minister, he had the joy of baptizing more than twenty precious souls into Christ.

Minister Taylor's preaching was both practical and powerful. His congregation frequently heard him say, "Lay aside every weight," "Put your hands on something," and "You got your Bibles? Because I want you to fact-check me." These were far more than memorable sayings-they reflected the convictions by which he lived and ministered. Rodney passionately encouraged believers to remove anything that hindered their spiritual growth, actively engage in the work of the Kingdom, and faithfully measure every teaching against the Word of God. His confidence, authenticity, and unwavering faith made every member and visitor feel welcomed, valued, protected, and loved.

Although he officially entered full-time ministry in 2021, Rodney's heart for ministry began many years earlier. As a mentor and counselor for Faith Connection, he invested in the lives of countless young men, walking alongside them through their teenage years with wisdom, patience, and genuine love. He possessed a remarkable ability to meet people where they were while inspiring them to become all God had called them to be. Many of those young men grew into successful adults who continued to cherish their lifelong relationship with him.

Rodney's ministry extended well beyond the church walls. He faithfully served as an Ambassador for Senior Life, where he enjoyed volunteering and teaching the class. He also volunteered with One Hope Church of Christ, praying over the food pantry ministry and assisting in preparing meals for the Senior Life Meals on Wheels Program. Rodney maintained an open-door policy at his office, but he believed ministry happened wherever people were hurting. Whether visiting the sick, encouraging the shut-in, praying with families in hospitals, or simply offering a listening ear, he faithfully carried the love of Christ into the lives of others.

On Monday, July 27, 2026, Minister Rodney D. Taylor, Sr. answered the call of his Savior and entered into his eternal rest. Though his earthly ministry has ended, his legacy of faith, compassion, humility, and service will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory his devoted wife and soulmate, Valencia Taylor; his loving mother, Helen Jewell Thompson; his siblings, Jearod Taylor, Brian Taylor (Christi), Lori Campbell (Dwight), Dana Bowers (Tony), and Bernice Ross-Robinson (Raymond); his beloved children, Evanee Taylor, Rodney Taylor II (Lei), and Devin Savage; his treasured grandchildren, Luke, Peyton, Colin, and Rory; his forever friends of the LHS and MHS Class of 1979; his church family; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and countless lives forever touched by his ministry.

As written by Marvin Winans:

For we may never know all the people we have touched,

For we may never know all the lives that we have reached;

But we know You know, for a record You do keep.

And when the end does finally begin,

We will receive a great reward for what we've done.

Minister Rodney D. Taylor, Sr. lived a life marked by unwavering faith, faithful service, and unconditional love. His voice may be silent, but his example will continue to echo in the hearts of those he loved and served. His race has been completed, his faith has become sight, and his reward is now eternal.

The Celebration of Life service will also be live streamed for those unable to attend.

Zoom Meeting ID: 234 434 709

Please continue to keep the Taylor family in your prayers during this difficult time.

Entrusted to the professional care of Mayberry Funeral Home

406 E. Illinois Avenue • Midland, Texas 79701