Roddy "Rod" W. Bettis

Roddy Woodrow Bettis, age 77, passed away on September 12, 2024, in Opelika, Alabama. He was born on November 22, 1946, in Columbus, Georgia, to Nathan Woodrow Bettis and Evelyn Money Bettis, who preceded him in death.

Rod’s family moved to Atlanta where he attended Southwest DeKalb High School. He then served his country as a proud member of the Air Force during the Vietnam War. Honored for his bravery and dedication, he received the esteemed Air Metal award for his exceptional service.

Rod attended the University of Georgia in Athens, where he graduated with a degree in business. He became an officer with the Atlanta Police Department, rising to the rank of detective, and later worked as an agent for the Florida Department of Law Enforcement in Miami. He then transitioned to working in sales for Firearms Training Systems (now InVeris Training Solutions) where he worked hand-in-hand with police departments around the country and the Caribbean until his retirement in 2018. 

He married Terry Lynn Girardeau on April 19, 1980 in Atlanta and raised their family in Roswell, Georgia. Rod was a devoted fan of UGA football and enjoyed cheering on the Dawgs. He loved traveling for both work and pleasure, seeing the sights and exploring other countries - he ate his way around the world. Panama City Beach was his home away from home and he made many memories with family and friends while spending time there. Rod enjoyed doo-wop music, good ribs and a cozy pair of pajama pants.

Rod is survived by his wife, Terry Girardeau Bettis of Auburn, AL; his children, Robby Bettis of Lanett, AL, Steffani Bettis Bowman of Lanett, AL, Keightley Bettis Garnett (Dusty) of Auburn, AL, Melanie Bettis Pappalardo (Domenico) of Atlanta, GA; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren that called him “Grandaddy.”

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 4th at 2:00pm CT, Embrace Church, 2142 N College Street, Auburn, AL 36830