Rodney Gaylon Orrill
Rodney Gaylon Orrill, lovingly known to family and friends as Gaylon or ‘Popo’, left this earth peacefully on Tuesday morning, February 3, 2026, at the age of 81. He was a longtime resident of Dickinson, Texas, and a man whose love, strength, and quiet kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Gaylon was born on December 15, 1944, in Texarkana, to Zach and Maye Orrill. He grew up with strong values, a hardworking spirit, and a heart devoted to family—qualities that stayed with him throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his mother and father and his three brothers, Dwayne, Larry and Rex, whom he loved dearly.
Gaylon proudly served his country in the United States Navy. During his time in service, he met the love of his life, Patricia Leyva. He married his beloved ‘Honey’ in 1969, beginning a lifelong love story that remained strong and beautiful through the years. Together they built a life full of devotion, laughter, and unwavering partnership.
He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia; his three children, Eric and his wife Ciana, Damon and his wife Miranda, and Marni and her husband Jimmy. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Kylie, Alex, Gage, Nic, Kade, Tyson, Reece, Luke, and Levi, as well as his precious great-grandchildren: Nixon, Grant, Millie, and Bennett. Each of them brought him immense pride and joy, and to them he was not just a father and grandfather, but a steady source of wisdom, warmth, and unconditional love.
Dad was truly a jack of all trades. Gifted with his hands and creative mind, he found joy in carpentry, crafting, home renovations, and building additions—always improving and creating spaces filled with love for his family. If something needed fixing, building, or improving, Popo was the one who could do it.
Above all, Dad will be remembered for his gentle heart, his dedication to his family, and the deep love he shared with those closest to him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the love he gave so freely.
He will be forever loved, always remembered, and deeply missed.
In his honor, there will be a visitation on Sunday, February 8, 2026 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm at Crowder Funeral Home in Dickinson, Texas, followed by a rosary at 3:00pm. A funeral service will be held on Monday, February 9, 2026 at 11:00am, also at Crowder Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Galveston Memorial Park Cemetery.
