Rodney Neal Barnard

Rodney Neal Barnard, 72, passed away at 10:53 p.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.

He was born on August 17, 1953 in Carrollton, Illinois, and was the son of the late Derald and Annabelle (Snider) Barnard.

Rodney built a successful career with Express Scripts, where he worked as a Software Architect. His sharp mind and tireless curiosity made him not only exceptional at his work, but also the kind of person who could fix or figure out just about anything. Whether it was technology, a household project, or anything in between,  Rodney approached it with determination.

Beyond his professional life, Rodney’s greatest joy came from his family. He adored his children and grandchildren and took tremendous pride in the people they were becoming. He was deeply invested in their lives - always present, always supportive, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure they had every opportunity to succeed. He encouraged their involvement in school and extracurricular activities, and never missed a chance to remind them how important education and perseverance are.

Rodney loved music and found peace in playing the guitar. In his younger years, he also enjoyed the freedom of the open road on his motorcycle. He had a natural talent for tinkering and creating things. 

He leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, steady guidance, and unconditional love. Surviving are his three children and their spouses, Deanna (Christopher) Trader of Springfield, Illinois, Kelly (Billy) Vermillion of Newman, Illinois, and Justin (Jessica) Barnard of Glen Carbon, Illinois; six grandchildren, Sophie Foiles and Kai Trader, both of Springfield, Illinois, Alexandra and Connor Quinn, both of Newman, Illinois, and Tesla and Felicia Barnard, both of Glen Carbon, Illinois; a brother, Donald Barnard of Jerseyville; as well as a “bonus brother,” Frank Price of Jerseyville.

Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. until time of family remembrances at 7 p.m., Monday, October 27, 2025, at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family for the benefit of his grandchildren, in care of the funeral home.

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