Roderick Michael Thorns

We are born of this Earth, arising with love from its fertile soil. When our spirits return to our rightful place along side the Lord, our bodies return to rest among the same soil - seeding more life, giving rise to more love. Thus Roderick Michael Thorns - born September 11th 1971, reunited with our Lord on September 2nd, 2023 - will always be with us, in life and in love. Roderick was born in New Orleans, Louisiana from the union of Cheryl Rosa Blossom and Jimmie Thorns, Jr. He was the first born leader of four siblings: Jennifer Cooper (née Thorns), Noel Thorns, Erika Thorns, and Kyle Jones. A host of nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins and in-laws, and friends from all walks of life join in celebrating Roderick’s bright light. A graduate of Warren Easton High School, Roderick’s lifelong love of knowledge was supported by studies at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia (computer science), Delgado Community College in New Orleans (culinary arts), and an innumerable number of books, articles, conversations, and experiences. Roderick’s professional career traversed his wide range of interests and competencies, from real estate to his final employer, the Internal Revenue Service. Through all his hard work, Roderick, always the giver, found the most joy in cooking. An accomplished sous chef, he owned and operated a catering company (RMT Co); his gumbo, particularly, will forever live in the minds, hearts, and stomachs of all who tasted it. Homegoing services will be held at Rhodes Funeral Home at 3933 Washington Avenue (New Orleans) on September 29th, 2023. The viewing will be held from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, with memorial services beginning at 6:00 pm. A repast will follow. To best celebrate Roderick’s light, his family and friends ask you simply follow his example: learn, give, and grow. And if there is ever a moment where you - or we - feel alone, then please, talk to someone who remembers him: his essence is everywhere, seeding lives and loves we have yet to meet. He will forever live with us, in us, and around us. Let his memory be a loving reminder that we are never, ever, alone.

Roderick Michael Thorns

September 2, 2023