Rory Emeric Woodford

Rory’s Journey April 18, 1981—November 6, 2020 Rory was born in Gary, Indiana to Gwendolyn Marie (Woodford) Miller. He was named by our family matriarch, Mrs. Rost (Auntie Janice) Washington. He accepted the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as his personal savior at an early age and was baptized at New Salem Missionary Baptist Church. He sang in numerous choirs throughout his life and was known as a “powerhouse tenor”. He was also gifted in dance and sports. He attended North High School and earned the name “Big R”. As a child, Rory had quite the reputation for imitating many people. His impersonation of Michael Jackson and Usher left the family crazy with laughter. He was especially fond of cartoons, DC & Marvel comics, Legos, signature caps, nice suits and ties and gaming. When watching his favorite cartoon (Thundercat), Rory would replicate everything done by the lead character “Lion-O”. His siblings called him “serial killer”. Raised in the church, Rory established his own fictional character and alias named “Rev. Sprinkle”. He would anoint, lay hands, baptize, and pray for his siblings when they were just about to get in trouble. The last decade of Rory's’ life was his greatest challenge. We remember him for his courage and strength throughout his battle with kidney and heart disease. His campaign for a kidney transplant lasted nearly 9 years. This much needed surgery never came to pass. Rory had a conversation with God on November 6, 2020 and gained his wings at 1:48am with his mother at his side. Rory is survived by his Mother-Gwendolyn (Woodford) Miller; siblings Sean (Lisa) Cooley, Charmiqua Pham, Roshaunta (Marques) Williams, LaTish LaBroi, and Jasmine Miller; children Tavion, Savion, Arajah, and Taryona; fiancé, Michelle Moody; and a host of other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his nephew, Ricardo E. DeJesus. Rory embraced extended/other very special people in his life that he called family. He affectionately referred to Pam & Randy Moody as “Mom & Dad”, Scott as “Brother & Best Friend”, and Gregory S. Miller as “Pops”. A message from Rory’s Mother: “If Rory told you he loved you, He Meant It”

Rory Emeric Woodford

April 18, 1981 - November 6, 2020