Waxhaw, North Carolina – In the quiet suburb of Waxhaw, North Carolina—just south of Charlotte, North Carolina—the passing of Richard Webster Roddy Sr. marked the end of a life steeped in service, faith and local dedication. According to his obituary, Roddy was born on January 24 1943 and died at 5 a.m. on the day noted.
A former U.S. Marine Corps pilot (an A‑6 Intruder navigator) during the Vietnam era, Roddy brought discipline, commitment and a work‑hard ethos back to civilian life. After moving to Waxhaw in 2013 to be nearer to his family and medical care, he reinvigorated his local ties.
In retirement, Roddy’s contributions extended beyond the typical. He was noted for helping provide land for a fire department and recycling centre, championing children’s education in his former county and building affordable housing—actions that earned him local respect and gratitude. One mourner reflected, “Rich always went the extra mile for someone else,” capturing his consistent generosity.
Waxhaw itself is a town experiencing rapid growth (the population more than doubled from 2010 to 2020) and evolving community dynamics. In this context, Roddy’s rootedness—residing among neighbours, raising a family close by, and maintaining community links—offered a stabilising touch.
His legacy is two‑fold: service in uniform and local‑community investment. While his passing leaves a void, it also provides a model for how individuals in growing suburban communities can anchor themselves meaningfully. The memorial service, held at Lake Gaston Baptist Church in July, drew friends and family to “laugh and cry, swap memories and stories” in honour of his life.
In Waxhaw and beyond, Roddy will be remembered not just for what he did—but for how he did it: with integrity, faith, and a commitment to others.
