Rodney Desaussure

Rodney Lee Desaussure, 64, of Melbourne, former resident of Georgia, passed away on Thursday, July 1, 2021 at the Iowa River Hospice Home in Marshalltown surrounded by his loving family. Per the wishes of Rodney and his family, cremation rites have been accorded under the care of Mitchell Family Funeral Home. A family led celebration of life will take place on Sunday, July 4 at 4:00 P.M. at his home. For condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234. Rodney was born on November 25, 1956 in Charleston, South Carolina to his mother, Mary Ruth Curry. He spent most of his early years in South Carolina, before moving to Atlanta, Georgia, where he graduated from high school. In 2011, Rodney relocated to Newton, Iowa, where he met the love of his life, Malissa Pennell. They were united in marriage on February 18, 2017 and made their home together in Melbourne. Rodney loved his job as a truck driver and in his free time, he enjoyed painting, crafting, making walking sticks and watching movies. A “Jack of all trades,” Rodney enjoyed tinkering in the garage and especially enjoyed working on cars, his favorite being his 1976 Pontiac Grand Prix. Rodney was described by his family as “knowing no strangers” and was loved by all. He was practical, patient, passionate, protective and understanding; an overall good person. He had a great sense of humor and was an entertaining storyteller. More than anything, Rodney loved his family and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Those left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Malissa; his children: LaTesha, Rodney Jr., Chanell, Raymond and Thomas; grandchildren: Brittney, Aalayah, Timothy Jr., Chana, Brionna, Kiana, Christian, Rodney III and Janeay; 2 great-grandchildren: Kamilyah and Jayden; his siblings: Reginald, Gerald, Jessie, Linda, David and Dean and many nieces and nephews. In death, Rodney is reunited with his mother; 2 sisters: Valerie and Brenda and his sister-in-law, P.J.