Savona, New York

Rodney E. “Rod” Johnson – 62 – of County Route #17, Savona, NY died Monday afternoon (November 25, 2024) at his home surrounded by his loved ones, following a prolonged illness.

Born in Sayre, PA on March 14, 1962, he was the son of the former Margaret (Kellogg) Johnson.

Rod grew up in North East Bradford, PA and attended North East Bradford High School in Leraysville, PA.  He later served his country as a member of the United States Navy as a Culinary Specialist from 1982-1983.

Throughout the years Rod resided in several locations including Rome, PA, Middletown Connecticut, Athens, PA and has resided in Savona, NY for the past year.  He had been employed (26 years) as a Diesel Engine Mechanic at Jersey Engine Rebuilders in Warren Center, PA.

Rod enjoyed working on any big or small engines and also loved to simply “putter around” fixing things.  He also enjoyed fishing — especially in small ponds.  He had a deep love of his family especially his granddaughters who were the “Apple of His Eye.”  There was never a moment you wouldn’t find Rod in the kitchen smiling away while pouring his heart into a meal for his family. Anyone who knew Rod would say that he had a heart of gold to which no other could compare. He knew how to always make someone smile or laugh with his silly jokes, which made him who he was.

Surviving are his lifetime partner of 30 years; Celia “Cece” Harrington of Savona; his daughter, Quashawna “Shawnee” Johnson (Alex) of Savona; his son, Matthew “Mattman” Johnson of Litchfield, PA; his mother, Margaret “Peggy” Rought of Owego, NY; 1 brother, Edward Wells; 4 sisters, Christine Goss, Tina Wells, Rebecca Wells and Melissa Johnson; 2 granddaughters (who he adored), Serenity Youngs and Trinitee Youngs; 2 very special nephews Jacob Willson and Josh Willson (Emily Willson), several other nieces & nephews, along with 3 great nephews and 1 great niece.

At Rod’s request there will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Rod’s family request that in lieu of flowers memorial contributions in his name be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.