Born in 1953 to Mildred J. Edwards and Louie B. Burns in the city of Pittsburg, Texas. Rodney was the youngest of 3 children. His two siblings Connie Birdine and Michael Burns, both preceded him in death. In 1955, Rodney and Michael moved to Dallas with their dad and gained a Stepmother Imogene Burns and two additional sisters Yvonne Fisher (preceded him in death) and Gwendolyn Smith.

Rodney married Margie Willis in 1974. They moved to Wilmer, Texas, where they cultivated a good life together and raised two beautiful daughters; Angel and Madrea Burns. Under the leadership of Elder J. D. Donaldson of Macedonia C.O.G.I.C., Rodney received Christ as his personal savior in 1976.

Over the years, Rodney was a committed husband, dedicated father, and loyal employee to Continental Batteries for 38 years. He worked to help two daughters through college and to provide an excellent home for his family. He loved his family, the holidays, the Cowboys, his tools, watching HBCU bands on YouTube, and the Lordt!😂

Rodney is survived by Margie Burns (wife of 45 years), Angel and Jabari Jones, Madrea and David Bell, Morgan Elise Bell, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, friends and loved ones.