Rodney "Mort" Waters

Rodney "Mort" Waters, 82, of Frederick, passed away at 2:50 pm on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at his home.

He was born October 27, 1942, the son of Jesse Clark and Mildred Maxine Waters. He married the love of his life Jacqueline Colleen Perry on December 30, 1967, by the Rev. Lottie Marrow. Together they shared 57 years of marriage. Rodney was raised in the small village of Browning by his grandfather Esau Waters whom he cherished for his upbringing, his mother Maxine and numerous caring village residents.

Rodney attended Browning Grade School and graduated from Rushville High School with the Class of 1960. It was here that Rodney was given the nickname “Mort” by his teacher; Mr. Wixom. Following graduation, Rodney answered Uncle Sam’s call to serve overseas during the Vietnam War. He was stationed in Nice, France, and was assigned nuclear arms duty and later specialized in communications. It was a life learning experience for him for which he was grateful.

As a veteran, he was awe-struck to go on the Honor Flight with his army veteran daughter; Tonia LeAnn Clark. He was also very honored to be presented a veteran’s quilt by Jennifer (John Paul) Stambaugh. John Paul's father; "Red John" Stambaugh, was considered a good friend and was like a father figure to him.

Rodney’s wife and children were his most precious gifts in life. He and Jacqueline were faithfully dedicated to raising their children to attend church regularly. He was very family-oriented and loved going on numerous outings and adventures together in their upbringings. He was a dedicated family man. His wife and children were his world. Rodney enjoyed visiting his elderly friends and would always offer to lend a helping hand in any way that he could. “Mort” never knew a stranger and would always be striking up conversations at many of the town auctions or small-town celebrations. He was never lacking in “Yakety Yaks”.

Rodney had a great love for animals and had a wide variety on his “Hobby Farm” through the years. Many children remember being bussed to Mr. Rodney’s pretty zoo on the Frederick Hill. He cherished his time as a custodian at the Browning Grade School and later Washington Pre- School. He was always passing out hugs and a quarter for each child’s birthday, which was like a million bucks to the kids. There are some kids who still have their quarters.

Rodney was a great lover of bluegrass music; especially the fiddle, as it would sure get him moving. Rodney and Martin Edwards enjoyed many bluegrass festivals together. It is certain that Rodney is sitting by the creek banks with his hound dog in his forever home, finally being able to play his fiddle.

In addition to his wife, Jacqueline of Frederick, Rodney is survived by a daughter; Tonia LeAnn Clark of Rushville, two sons; Grayson Matthew & James William Waters both of Rushville, grandchildren; Nicholas Franklin (Amber) Clark, Lacey Brummett, Daltyn Waters, Britney Clark, Gracelyn Ann Waters, Breanna Ruth Waters, Eleanor Waters, April Marie & Blade Matthew Waters, Gracelynn Waters, Afton & Memphis Clark, great grandchildren; Jade Adali, Zoey & Zayden Crabtree,, Draven Lee Park, Reagan, Paxton & Eli Pherigo. Also surviving are his beloved dogs; Chewy & Gismo. He was preceded in death by an angel daughter; Tamera Colleen, three unborn heavenly angels, his mother; Mildred Maxine, a half sister; Helen (Harold) Green of Havana and by a cousin; LaVina Walton (Francis) of Browning.

In accordance with Rodney’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. A memorial service honoring Rodney’s life will be conducted at a later date and will be announced. The Triplett & Wood Funeral Home of Rushville has been entrusted with the care and arrangements. Memorial Contributions in Rodney’s memory are suggested to Schuyler County Humane Society. You are invited to share your memories of Rodney and leave a condolence at www.triplettwood.com