Kerry G. “Coach Rody” Rodeffer, 67, of Champaign, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at his home.
Kerry was born February 6, 1958 in LaHarpe, Illinois, the son of William R. “Bill” and Rosaland “Tiny” (Henry) Rodeffer.
Kerry was a 1976 graduate of LaHarpe High School. Following high school, he served in the U.S. Air Force. He received his Bachelors Degree from Monmouth College, Monmouth, Illinois. Later, he earned his Masters Degree from the University of Illinois. He began his teaching career at Rankin Community School in Pekin and later taught at Edison Middle School in Champaign. He enjoyed coaching basketball and baseball at Rankin Community School and Edison Middle School and baseball at Champaign Central High School. He retired from teaching and coaching in 2018. He also enjoyed fishing, golfing, attending family gatherings and especially being Papa Kerry to his great-nephew: Raleigh. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Bears, St. Louis Blues and Illini Fan. The family has many fond memories of spur of the moment trips to catch one of Kerry’s favorite teams playing.
Survivors include one nephew: Bryan (Lauren) Rodeffer of Fort Madison, Iowa; one great-nephew: Raleigh Rodeffer of Fort Madison; a special aunt: Deloris Rodeffer of Blandinsville and special cousins: Tanieka Rodeffer, LaShay (Josh) Ramirez, Rod (Caitlyn) Rodeffer and Bryar Rodeffer.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister: Carla D. Rodeffer.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, June 12, 2025 at Banks & Beals in LaHarpe with Pastor Nate McCarter officiating. Burial will follow at Terre Haute Cemetery, Terre Haute, Illinois.
The family encourages attendees to wear their favorite sports attire to the visitation and service.
A memorial fund has been established for his great-nephew, Raleigh Rodeffer’s, education. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit Kerry’s obituary at banksandbeals.com
