Rodney Dale Emery, 86, of Sikeston, Missouri, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025.

Born on June 1, 1939, in Island Falls, Maine, to John Albert Emery and Delia Marie Chasse Emery, Rodney lived a life full of adventure, service, and love for his family.

Rodney proudly served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1959, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his country. He wore his retired Army Veteran hat with great pride, and when thanked for his service, he would humbly reply, "It was a long time ago, but we got it done." After his military service, he moved to Meriden, Connecticut, before settling in Sikeston, Missouri, in 1989, where he built a life filled with warmth and community.

A true jack of all trades, Rodney had a remarkable ability to tackle any task with skill and enthusiasm. His passion for traveling led him to explore new places, creating lasting memories with his family. Rodney's love for cooking brought people together, as he delighted friends and loved ones with his culinary creations, often shared around a table filled with laughter and stories.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, John Albert Emery and Delia Marie Chasse Emery; the love of his life, Vada Eaton; daughter, Michelle Emery; his six sisters, Lillian May Emery (1923), Lydia Frances Emery (1923), Geraldine Annette Emery (1925), Loretta Honora Emery (1931), Nellie Sharon Emery (1976), and Lorraine Mildred Emery (2022); and his four brothers, Daniel Joseph Emery (2016), Roland Francis Emery (2012), John Albert Emery, Jr. (Jack) (2003), and Gerald Edmund Emery (Pete) (1992).

He is survived by his son, Rod Emery, and daughter, Marci Lee, who will carry forward his legacy of kindness and zest for life.

A private graveside service with full military honors will be held at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield, MO, at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, June 26, 2025.

McMikle Funeral Home of Sikeston is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Legion or a local veterans' organization in Rodney's memory.

Rodney's adventurous spirit and warm heart will be missed by all who knew him.