In the early afternoon of Easter Sunday, March 27th 2016, Mr. Ronald "Rod" Bennett Mabry, surrounded by the ladies he loves and adores most, left this earth to walk through those Pearly gates of Heaven to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, his father, Mr. Luke Mabry, his sister, Miss Susan Mabry, and to discover the most glorious fishing holes heaven has to offer. Rod is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Mrs. Sandra Pegram Mabry, whom he adores more than she'll ever know, his daughter, Candice Lynn Mabry, the absolute apple of his eye and duplication of him, his "sis" and rock, Mrs. Katrenia Mabry Davis (David Davis), little brother, "Dawg" B. Risden Mabry (Cynthia Mabry), who also shares Rod's love for jokes and "stirring the pot." Rod is also survived by his amazing mother, Ms. Kate Hill Mabry, whom we all believe will outlive, and out-dance us all. Rod also leaves behind his nieces and nephews, great nephews and great nieces, and possibly the most patient in-laws ever; Mr. Joe Pegram Jr. and his wife Gayle, and Mr. Frankie Pegram and his wife Joannie.

From the day he was born, November 11th, 1949, a date most befitting to him given his love for his service to his country, Rod was full of life and adventure. From the time he began squirrel hunting with his dog, Lady, to the nights he would sneak in through his sister's bedroom window after curfew, Rod was ready for adventure, and adventure is what he set off to find. After graduation, Rod volunteered for the Air Force with goals of fighting in the Vietnam War. Uncle Sam thought differently and sent him to Alaska. Alaska was perfect for him, given his love of cold weather. He left his high school sweetheart behind with promises of marriage. A promise he kept upon his return from service, and on August 27th, of 1972 he made Miss Sandra Pegram his wife.

Rod continued his thrill seeking on a more local basis once he was back home, going to work with Pee Dee Electric. A company which became extended family to all of us during his 42 of years working alongside everyone there. Rod loved being a lineman, working outdoors, and challenging his mind and body every day. If he wasn't working, he was fishing. Rod loved fishing, hunting, and was especially proud of his stews, chili, and spaghetti. He was a great cook.

In 1985, we nearly lost Rod. A severe car crash involving an 18 wheeler almost took his life, but ever the fighter Rod pulled through. Although the accident ended his days as a lineman, he was still able to continue his career with Pee Dee. After the accident, Rod's faith grew immensely… however his desire to express his opinions never waivered. For years, Rod was known by his dodge truck that sported many bumper stickers, on his tailgate, proudly displaying exactly what he thought. But in November of 1989 his greatest adventure began, fatherhood.

Through the years, Rod faced tough obstacles, from his wreck to the last four years as he battled ALS, but Rod always continued to fight, and always gave God the credit for his strength. All of us who knew Rod, have asked the same question, how can so much happen to one man, and in the end the answer is clear; God used Rod as a tool to inspire all of us to stay strong, keep God first, and love others even when we may not act very lovingly. So today, keep these memories with you, and share his testimony with all you meet. Remember these few things only Rod can deliver: "You lika dey soup?!" "mmm-gouwah" "vomanos" and don't be late!

We would like to extend our most sincere and heartfelt thanks to all of our family and friends who have been there for Rod, and us, throughout the years. You can never imagine the happiness and gratitude you gave Rod. We ask instead of flowers that you please make donations to his beloved church, Bright Spot Baptist Church PO Box 3304, Wingate, NC 28174, or to the NC Chapter of the ALS Association: webnc.alsa.org, or the Paralyzed veterans of America: pva.org

The family will receive friends from 1-2 pm on Wednesday at Bright Spot Baptist Church in Monroe with the funeral service beginning at 2PM. Burial will follow the funeral service at Bennett Cemetery, 437 McRae Avenue, Wadesboro, NC.

Morgan & Son Funeral Home is serving the family of Mr. Mabry.