Rodney Ashlock

Rodney Olen Ashlock passed peacefully from this life on August 1, 2026, with his beloved wife by his side. He was 60 years old. 

Born on August 12, 1965, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to Lanny and Bonnie Ashlock, Rodney knew from a young age that his life’s calling was to ministry. He was a steadfast steward of that calling with each day he was given, bringing the hope of the gospel to churches, college students, and his community at Abilene Christian University with a spirit of love and joy. 

In 1983, Rodney attended Harding University to pursue a degree in Biblical Studies, where he met his wife and the love of his life, Laura. Together, they lovingly raised their children, nurtured their grandchildren, and faithfully served the Lord for 38 years.

While completing his Master of Divinity at Abilene Christian University and Ph.D. in Biblical Studies at Baylor University, Rodney ministered to churches, working with the Redford Church of Christ in Detroit, Michigan, the Eliasville Church of Christ in Eliasville, Texas, and the Troy Church of Christ in Troy, Texas. He taught at Michigan Christian College for three years during graduate school.

Rodney settled with his family in Abilene, Texas in 1998, where he pursued his passion for teaching as a professor of Old Testament in the Department of Bible, Missions, and Ministry at Abilene Christian University. He dutifully served as Chair of the Bible Department for 15 years before turning his focus to mentoring his fellow faculty as Director of Faculty Development in the Adams Center. 

While teaching at ACU, Rodney also shepherded the Westgate Church of Christ in Abilene, Texas as Pulpit Minister for 20 years. When he retired from full-time preaching, he continued to bring God’s word to churches across Texas, living out the true servant’s call: “Here am I, Lord. Send me.”Rodney was deeply devoted to his wife, children, and grandchildren, whom he adored. Throughout his life, he showered his family with quiet acts of love and service, never missing an opportunity to help, listen, or play. For his steady spirit, his peaceful presence, and his unwavering love, he will be truly missed by all who knew him. 

Rodney is survived by his wife, Laura; his parents, Lanny and Bonnie Ashlock; his brothers, Rick (Sherri) Ashlock and Ron (Hiromi) Ashlock; his children, Nathan (Erin) Ashlock and Bonnie (Alec); and his three grandchildren, Olen and Barlow Ashlock and Asher Finch.

A visitation will be held in the Family Room at University Church of Christ at 9:00 a.m., with funeral service to follow at 10:00 a.m. in the University Church of Christ Sanctuary.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Rodney’s life may make a memorial donation to the ACU Volleyball Excellence Fund.