Rodney T. Heath
September 29, 1929 - August 18, 2017
Rodney Thomas Heath passed away Friday, August 18, 2017 in Farmington, NM at the age of 87. Rodney was born on Sept. 29, 1929 to Julian and Minnie Heath in Wichita Falls, Texas. His father and both of his grandfathers were Baptist ministers. He was the youngest of 10 children. After the death of his Father during the depression, he and his ailing mother were cared for by his 6 brothers and 3 sisters. Consequently, he moved frequently - attended approximately 2 dozen schools.
After high school he attended Texas A and M on an Opportunity Scholarship, attaining the honor of inclusion in Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities. He graduated in June of 1954 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He then traveled to Farmington to begin his career with Southern Union Gas Company. In November of 1954 he married Emma Jean Brown and together they raised 5 sons. Forrest (Jeri) of Katy, TX, Gary (Karen) of Farmington, Doug (Leslie) of Sacramento, CA, "Randy" (deceased) and Bryan (Becky) of Farmington.
In 1959 Rodney founded Olman Heath Company and served as President of it and its successor companies until 1995. In 2000 Rodney founded Engineered Concepts and served as President and CEO until 2014. Rodney's accomplishments include: Entrepreneur and Inventor with more than 40 patents related to oil and gas production, NM Small Business Association Man of the year, member of the NM Amigos, President of Farmington Chamber of Commerce, and Desk and Derrick Boss of the Year on multiple occasions. He also coached baseball in local summer leagues for 18 years and was a member of Civitan, Rotary, Elks, United Way (President) and other civic and service organizations. Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, all his brothers and sisters and his son, "Randy".
He enjoyed traveling to historical locations, snowmobiling, golfing and was an avid supporter of all things Texas A and M. Rodney was also a proud grandfather to 8 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. Cremation will take place and memorial services will be held Thursday, August 24th at 10:30 am at Emmanuel Baptist Church with Pastors John Preston and Steve Ballew officiating, a reception luncheon to follow. Rodney will be laid to rest during a private burial at Greenlawn Cemetery.
Honorary pallbearers are Forrest Heath, Gary Heath, Doug Heath, Bryan Heath, Matthew Heath and Stephen Heath.
Memorial/donations may be made in Rodney's memory to Texas AandM Opportunity Award Scholarship, Scholarships and Financial Aid P.O. Box 30016 College Station, TX 77842.
Rodney's services are entrusted to Brewer, Lee and Larkin Funeral Home, 103 East Ute St., Farmington (505) 325-8688.
Should friend desire to send condolences to the family, they may do so at www.serenityandcompany.com
Service Details
Thursday, August 24th, 2017 10:30am, Emmanuel Baptist Church
Interment Details
Greenlawn Cemetery