Roderick Keith Willis

1983 ~ 2025

Date of Death: March 26, 2025

---

In profound sadness, the staff of Veasley Funeral Home & Cremations, Inc. want to express our sincere condolences to the Willis Family. Roderick's earthly temple is now resting in the care of Rowell-Parish Mortuary. Revelations 21:4 says, "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death; nor sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain, for the former things are passed away." Be assured that in the days ahead you will surely gain strength from the memories of Roderick Keith Willis.

Sincerely,

Derrick Veasley ~ Director

Henry Veasley ~ Director

Pastor E.C. Maltbia ~ Chaplain

---

Roderick Keith Willis, age 42, of Fort Smith, Arkansas, passed away

unexpectedly on March 26. Born on March 25, 1983, to Patricia Hardy and the late

Rodney Willis. Roderick, was the baby of the family, only son, and only grandson

(maternal). His father, maternal grandparents Patrick and Velma Kursh, paternal

grandparents George and Mattie Willis, Uncle Glen Willis, Cousins Anecia Kursh

and Atiim Willis, all preceded him in death.

While being born and raised in Fort Smith, Roderick attended the Fort Smith

Public Schools and graduated from Northside High School class of 1999. While

being a member of the NHS Grizzlies Football team, they won the 1999 State

Championship.

Roderick gave his life to Christ at an early age. He was a beloved son, brother, and

father whose spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him.

Roderick was a gentle giant who loved music, an avid sports fan (basketball,

football, wrestling, etc.) and a professional video gamer. He stayed up all night

playing video games. BALTIMORE RAVENS was his favorite football team.

Roderick’s’ rapping career begin in 1999. He found solace and purpose in the group 

he co-founded with John Michael Blount and Wilson Brown named NWC- New

World Christians. NWC melodies echoed across the community, reflecting

Roderick's commitment to his craft and his desire to uplift and inspire through

music. NWC performed in multiple states, made several recordings, and worked

with American Singer- Songwriter Montell Jordan in Atlanta, Georgia. Roderick

continued to rap until his untimely death.

Roderick's love for family was unparalleled, and he took immense pride in being a

devoted brother to his sisters. His children were the light of his life, and he

cherished every moment spent with them.

Roderick departed this life March 26, 2025, doing what he loved best – Serving the

Lord. He will be solely missed. Roderick's vibrant spirit and unwavering love will

be fondly remembered by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his

kindness. He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Patricia and Larry Hardy.

His beloved children - daughters: Adley and Hartlyn Willis; Sons: Kaymin and

Bentley Willis. His cherished sisters – LaShawn Willis and Shanna Willis

His devoted brothers – Rodney Dumas (Crystal) John Michael Blount (Sara)

Fiancée – Kayla Allen

Aunts – Rhonda Royal, Lorna Kursh-Wells, Karen Kidd

Uncles – Patrick Kursh, George Willis, Richard Willis, Emmitt Martin

Nieces – Kaliyah and Zariayah Dumas

Nephews – JaiBrannin Campbell, Tristan Knauls, Tavian, Mekhian, Kyree and

Javan Dumas, Kobe and Tristyn Blount, Mathew and Michael Bryant

Great Nephew – JaiKairo Campbell and many other family members and friends who

will carry his memory in their hearts.

Walk through visitation for family and friends will be Friday April 4, 2025; 11:00am to 6:00pm Rowell-Parish Mortuary Chapel 611 North 9th St., Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901. The family will also receive visitors at 7211 Cheryl Lane Fort Smith, AR., 72908.

Celebration of life service will be Saturday April 5, 2025, 10:00am Ninth Street Missionary Baptist Church 1023 North 9th St., Fort Smith, Arkansas 72904.

Committal and final resting place: Oak Cemetery 1401 S. Greenwood Ave., Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901.