Rodger Lynn Durant, of Oakhurst, Texas, passed away on Nov. 1, 2026, at the age of 52. He was born on Sept. 10, 1974, in Houston, Texas.
Rodger will be remembered as a man who enjoyed life in simple and meaningful ways. He worked in the construction industry doing demolition, painting, cement and drywall. He loved working with his hands and he brought that same hardworking spirit into the rest of his life. He loved spending time in the yard, especially tending to flower beds, and found happiness in music, particularly Classic Rock.
He treasured being with family and friends, enjoyed a good meal and anything sweet, especially chocolate. One of his greatest joys was the birth of his son Nicholas and watching him become the man he is today. He was so proud of him and would to tell everyone. Rodger enjoyed visiting resale shops and collecting old memorabilia. Rodger was also an American patriot, though he did not serve in the armed forces he loved his country deeply. He had a love for animals of every kind and had a special love for his dog, “Buddy.”
In his younger years, Rodger enjoyed playing baseball, riding his bike with friends in the neighborhood, and playing the drums in a band with friends. He was known for being a jokester, whether telling or listening to jokes. Rodger enjoyed time spent with friends, and those who knew him will remember the laughter and easy company he brought into a room.
He is survived by his mother, Joyce Gilbert Durant; his son, Nicholas Cole Durant (and wife Melissa); his stepchildren, Sarai Ulate (and husband Daniel Tapia), Joshua Ulate, and Justin Ulate (and wife Marcella); his sister, Lisa Durant Spangler (and husband, Arthur Ray); his nephew, Eddie Hudson Jr. (and wife, Staci); his niece, Stephanie Chambers (and husband, Kip); his nephew, Darrell Hudson (and wife, Lisa); his niece, Reana Spangler (and partner, Jacelyn Dorchuch); and his great-nieces and great-nephews: Kenneth, Kassidy, Kelci, Gage, Luke, Ivy, and Henry. He is also survived by longtime family friends Andy Garza and Sherry Garza, and Kim Fidler, whose friendship remained a valued part of his life.
Rodger was preceded in death by his father, David Arthur Durant; his son, Cody Lynn Simmons (formerly Durant); his grandparents: RL and Mary Gilbert, and Lee Thomas and Gertie-mae Minyard.
Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Nov. 11, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Neal Funeral Home located at 200 S Washington Ave, Cleveland, Texas 77327. A funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. at Neal Funeral Home.
Rodger will be remembered for his humor, his love of music, his appreciation for time with those he cared about, and the many everyday joys that made him who he was. His memory will be held close by all who knew and loved him.
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