Roderick “Big Rod” Roberts, 57, born on July 22, 1967, in Brooklyn, New York to the parents of Calvin Lee Roberts Sr (deceased) and Diana Jean Roberts. Roderick "Big Rod" transitioned to his eternal home on November 21, 2024, at the age of 57. Raised in Brooklyn alongside his parents and siblings, Rod moved to Durham, NC, at an early age where he attended Durham public schools. "Big Rod" dedicated several years of service as a street technician for the City of Chapel Hill, before retiring due to a work-related injury. Known to be a businessman with an entrepreneurial spirit, "Big Rod" ventured into multiple businesses, including car dealerships, fashion, and various other enterprises, following a legacy of entrepreneurship in his family. A devout man of God, Rod gave his life to Christ over a decade ago. He was a committed servant of God, a prayer warrior, and an unwavering disciple of Jesus Christ. For 17 years, he was a faithful member of One Love Christian Church in Durham, NC under the leadership of Pastor John and Elder Pauline Fitzpatrick. His love, kindness, and encouragement touched the lives of many, from youth to elderly people, across his local community and beyond.

Roderick is preceded in death by his father, Calvin Lee Roberts Sr., and his grandmother, Willie Lee Winston. He leaves to cherish his memory of his devoted mother, Diana J. Roberts (Durham, NC); three siblings, Calvin Lee Roberts Jr. (Jewel), Lesa Renae Roberts, and LaTrisha Evette Roberts; (All of Durham, NC), four aunts, Lorraine Clay (Pete), Brenda Ford-Harding (Robert), Doris Ford-Bullock, James Franklin Ford, one great-aunt, Retha Walker (Durham, NC) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He is also survived by his daughter, Doniesha Cogdell (Goldsboro, NC), five grandchildren; (All of Goldsboro, NC), one God-daughter Shakeema Jackson (Raleigh, NC), a special friend Markeyta Oliver, and two bonus brothers Alfred Hopkins and Lamont Moore.

"Big Rod's" infectious love and spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, love and compassion that will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.

FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS:

Service: Saturday, November 30, 2024 | Visitation service from 11:00 to 12:00 pm | Funeral service starts at 12:00 pm.

Place of service:
No Greater Love 2101 Angier Ave Durham NC 27702

Interment: Beechwood Cemetery