The Rev. Mark John Roderick, Sr.

Mark graduated from New Britain High School. He was the first Cross Country champion in school history in 1958 setting a school record which was held for two decades. Mark attended Porter School of Tool Design for Drafting & Engineering. His first job was with Mark V Designing Company for 6 years. He moved on to Timex Corporation and quickly advanced to head up the Quality Control Worldwide Division for 32 years. This position came with the experience of traveling around the World and allowed him the opportunity to design special watches with an AME Zion logo. Mark was also instrumental in the development of the medical equipment division at Timex. Through his strong relationship with the owners and his connection with AME Zion, Mark worked with a team to send medical equipment, food and supplies to St. Croix during the horrific tropical storm. When Mark followed his calling into ministry, he attended Seminary Classes through AME Zion and received his BA in Theology from Tunxis Community College & Amora College. Mark preached his trial sermon in 1968 and received his first church in 1971. He went on to Pastor Blackwell in Hartford, Workman in Torrington, Clinton in Ansonia, Mt. Pleasant in Danbury and Spottswood in New Britain where he retired from pastoring after 45 years in ministry.

Beloved Husband, Brother, Loving Father, Doting Poppie, Brother-in-law, Uncle, Cousin and Friend. A passionate soul with a heart for the hurting and a continuous prayer on his lips to God’s ear. He was loved by many and loved his family immensely.

Mark is survived by his wife Betty Lou (of 61 years), his daughters; Phyllis Seyler (Tim) and Desirae George. Brother John V. Roderick, Jr. (Melodee). His grandchildren; Jasmine Warren (Colton) Justin Seyler, Lexy Warren (James), Mark Roderick, III and Symone Powers (Shaun) and great grandchildren; Chase, Miya, McKenna, Reece & Arielle. Mark is preceded by his parents, John & Josephine Roderick, son, Rev. Mark John Roderick, Jr. and sister, Phyllis A. Stroman (Alfred).

We appreciate those who have closely supported Mark during his illness; Sister-in-law Mozelle Walker and Brother-in-laws Gilbert Wrice (Sharon) & Greg Wrice, along with a host of nieces (spouses), nephews (spouses) and friends.

Even in the midst of our heartbreak, we rejoice and celebrate a life Well Lived. A life and love ‘Lived Out Loud’ for both God and Family. Your Dad jokes, kindness and servant-heart we will miss and we will see you in Heaven one day!

Funeral Services will be Saturday, May 13th, 2023 at 11 a.m. with a calling hour held one hour prior from 10-11 a.m. at Spottswood AME Zion Church, 25 Crestwood Lane, New Britain CT 06053. Burial will follow in Quinnipiac Cemetery, 55 Marion Ave., Plantsville.