Rodney N. Matthews

Rodney Matthews – A Life Well Lived

I am Born

Rodney Neal Matthews was born on March 6, 1956, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to David Saffold and Lessie Mae Meekins (Leon-Guerrero). Though Milwaukee was home, his heart held treasured memories of summers spent in Magnolia, Arkansas—his mother’s hometown—and weekends in Muskegon Heights, Michigan, where he visited his beloved grandmother, Allie Mae Copeland. Rodney’s childhood was rich with the energy of a large, loving family. He enjoyed sports, storytelling, and performing in the Frey’s Drama Guild under the direction of Ms. Jewell Ware at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church.

I am Saved

Rodney gave his life to Christ at a young age and was baptized at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church. His faith remained the foundation of his life. He sought God’s will in all things and served faithfully as a Sunday School teacher, superintendent, coach, mentor, and leader—sharing his wisdom and example with all who knew him.

I am Educated

Rodney attended Milwaukee Public Schools through high school, graduating from James Madison High School. He continued his education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he majored in Economics and African American History. During his time on campus, he became affectionately known as “DJ Romeo Rod” on college radio. In 1976, he proudly joined the Gamma Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. After earning his degree in 1979, Rodney remained a lifelong learner, earning a master’s degree from Cardinal Stritch University and accumulating certifications in sales, marketing, insurance, and financial planning.

I am Athletic

A lifelong athlete and true sportsman, Rodney had a deep love for all things athletic. Whether he was cheering on the Bucks, attending a season opener at Lambeau Field, lacing up his sneakers or cleats to play basketball and softball, or bowling a 300 game, he brought passion, energy, and skill to every competition. His talents weren’t limited to playing—he was a dedicated coach and respected referee, always striving to uplift others through teamwork, fairness and mentorship. Sports were more than just a pastime for him; they were a way to build community, teach life lessons, and spread joy. His presence on and off the court and field left a lasting impact on everyone who had the pleasure to play with, learn from or be guided by him.

I am Devoted

In 1985, Rodney was blessed with the title he cherished most—Dad—following his union with Sylvia Hall. His daughters, Denean and Brittney, were his heart, joy, and constant motivation. He created a home grounded in faith, filled with love, laughter, and plenty of sports. He led with integrity and strived to model a life guided by the Word of God. In 2000, Rodney earned another cherished title—Poppi—bestowed by his first and only granddaughter, Breanna. His grandsons, Aaron, Titan, and Kairo, also came to know the warmth of his bear hugs, tickles, and the infamous “spider hand.” Whether cheering from the stands, traveling for recitals and graduations, or simply showing up, Rodney was a constant and joyful presence in the lives of those he loved.

I am Healed

After bravely enduring a seven-year journey with illness, Rodney received his complete healing and entered eternal rest on July 28, 2025, when God lovingly called him home.

I am Loved

Rodney’s life left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He was welcomed into Heaven by his grandmother, Allie Mae Copeland; father, David Saffold; Pops, Joaquin Leon-Guerrero; brother, Baby Leon-Guerrero; sister, Gloria Hunt; three nieces, Kenysha Matthews, JaKari and Amari Spates.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and faith cherished by his mother, Lessie Mae Leon-Guerrero, Milwaukee, WI; two beautiful daughters, Denean Johnson, Smyrna, GA, and Brittney (Re-Shaun) Jones, Marietta, GA; five brothers, Perry Matthews, Stone Mountain, GA, Kenny (Dawn) Matthews, Valrico, FL, Jack Leon-Guerrero, Milwaukee, WI, Jeffery (Sharita) Saffold, Fayetteville, NC and Melvin (Julia) Safford, Madison, WI; three sisters, Valerie (Allen) Smoot, Karen (Brian) Benning, and Veneta Leon-Guerrero, Milwaukee, WI; one granddaughter, Breanna Johnson, Smyrna, GA; three grandsons, Aaron Johnson, Kennesaw, GA, Titan Jones and Kairo Jones, Marietta, GA; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Visitation from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM on Monday, August 4, 2025 at Krause Funeral Home, 9000 West Capitol, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Additional visitation 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, with service at 12:00 PM, on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at New Testament Church, 10201 West Bradley Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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