Rodney Keister

Rodney R. Keister has passed away at the age of 66 on February 14, 2026.He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Joselina C. Keister, and their sons Adam and Daniel. He is also survived by his brother Robert (Angela) Keister Jr.; sisters Marcie (Glenn) Krause and Colleen (Mark) Smith; sisters in law Marie (Henry) Arias; and Gina (Erwin) Arias-Arrieta; and brother in law Napoleon M. Arias (Fritz); and Uncle David (Beth) Deitz; and dozens of nieces, nephews, great nieces; great nephews; cousins; and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Robert C. Keister Sr. and Berniece J. Keister. 

Rodney was born in Bradford, Pennsylvania on July 26, 1959. At age 2, it was determined that he was deaf. His family moved to Rochester, New York so Rodney could attend Rochester School for the Deaf. He graduated from RSD in 1978. After graduation, Rodney attended Gallaudet University -- a Deaf university in Washington, D.C. -- where he would meet his wife Joselina. He graduated from Gallaudet in 1983 with a Bachelor's degree. He went on to continue his education at Bryant and Stratton and worked in several positions throughout his career, including as a data processor at Chase Bank, and roles at the Rochester School for the Deaf and with People Inc.

Rodney loved playing soccer, and did so throughout high school and college. His position was sweeper, and he earned several MVP awards from his teams. He joined the USA Deaf Soccer team in 1979. Rodney was also involved with a dancing group throughout high school and university. His dance group traveled to Denmark in order to perform. He also loved to participate in many intramurals throughout his time in college.

As an adult, Rodney continued to enjoy playing in various community sport leagues with his family. He really loved to watch his sons play in volleyball games and enjoyed traveling with them to tournaments to see them compete. He was the commissioner of various Fantasy Football leagues for over 15 years. Finally, Rodney enjoyed attending church and loved to volunteer there whenever he could.

Rodney's Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, April 25 at Northridge Church - Rochester Campus, 2052 St. Paul Street, Rochester NY 14621. Calling hours will begin at 11 a.m., followed by a service at noon. Rodney may have had heart failure for the last seven years, but his unconditional love for others has not failed. 

He will always be lovingly remembered on Valentine's Day.

 Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13:8