In our lifetime, we know some people briefly and forget them. There are those who give real meaning to the word life. Roderick was one of those individuals. He was known as Christian, son, husband, father, grandfather, neighbor, and friend. Roderick was all of these and more. On Thursday, November 2, 2023, God called his devoted son, Roderick Wallace, home.

Roderick was born on May 7, 1940 in Birmingham, Alabama to the late Andrew and Eddie Lee Wallace. He was the eldest of three children. His sister, Gloria and his brother, Arthur, Jr. both preceded him in death. Roderick attended grade school in New York City and graduated from Parker High School in Birmingham, Alabama.

Roderick moved to Cleveland, Ohio in 1963 and soon after confessed his love for God and joined Greater Abyssinia Baptist Church. He was a lifelong member and joined the Gospel Choir, the Men’s Chorus, and the Lydia Circle.

On April 24, 1965, Roderick married Janet Thomas (deceased) and to this union two children were born, Jocelyn and Roderick, Jr. On February 14, 2002, Roderick married JoAnn E. Shaw. This union resulted in a blended family of five.

Roderick diligently served the Ford Motor Company for 34 years, retiring in 2003. Roderick always had a passion for visiting estate sales, thrift stores and Habitat for Humanity Resale shops. He also enjoyed renovating his home every two to three years getting ideas from HGTV and DIY. He was known for his flair for dressing. He would coordinate his outfits weeks in advance and was often complimented on his dapper appearance. Roderick was very active as a Hum of the Cleveland Chapter of Chums, Incorporated; a social and civic organization where his wife JoAnn is an active member.

Roderick leaves to mourn his wife of 21 years, JoAnn; daughters, Jocelyn Wallace, and Julliette Walker; sons, Roderick, Jr., Johnnie Walker (Rochelle), and Jason Shaw; grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many wonderful friends.

The family is especially grateful to the staff of Menorah Park, Hospice of the Western Reserve and the friends and neighbors who supported Roderick and JoAnn throughout the summer and fall. May God bless each one of you in the weeks and months ahead. May you continue to show love for one another.