Funeral Service for George Wendell Roden, age 88 of Cullman, will be at 1 p.m. on Monday, December 30, 2024, at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home with Buchanan Jackson officiating, burial will be at Etha Baptist Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:30 p.m.- 8 p.m. on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home.
Cullman Heritage Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Roden passed away on Friday, December 27, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born July 11, 1936, to James Lester Roden and Flora “Gladys” Roden.
In 1953 Wendell joined the United States Marine Corps where he served his country. Later, he joined the Cullman Police Department where he served as an officer for 13 years and was promoted to the rank of lieutenant over investigations with the Cullman Police Department. In 1978, Wendell ran for Cullman County Sheriff, where he served till 1991. During his three terms as Sheriff, he led the office through many advancements and enjoyed the great men and women that worked for him to serve the community. Protecting the community was his top priority, and his true calling was protecting those who were most vulnerable. After retirement Wendell settled in cattle farming and enjoying his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Wendell will be missed by many friends and family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sons, Mark Roden and Michael Roden; brothers-in-laws, Terry Gambrill, Clint Ellard, and Clifford Ellard.
Survivors include his wife, Janice Roden; sons, Robert (Gwen) Roden, Tyler (Sonja) Roden and Jon (Candy) Roden; fourteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren; sisters, Wynona Gambrill and Faye (Daryl) Hood.
