Roddy V. Amenta

Roddy V. Amenta, 75, of McGaheysville, died on Saturday, July 28, 2012, at Rockingham Memorial Hospital following a long illness. Even as he fought a courageous battle against the disorder that took his life, Roddy remained the eternal optimist. His optimism, dry sense of humor, and quick wit will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

The son of the late Thomas and Mary Amenta, Roddy was born and raised in Winsted, Conn. After receiving a B.S. degree in geology from the University of Connecticut, Roddy served in the U.S. Army. Following discharge, he obtained an M.S. degree from George Washington University while also working with the U.S. Soil Conservation Service. While an assistant professor of earth science at La Salle College, Roddy obtained his Ph.D. in structural geology and petrology from Bryn Mawr College. In 1974, Roddy accepted a position as assistant professor of geology at Madison College. During his 38 years on the faculty, Roddy taught numerous courses in the Geology Department and maintained an active research program with undergraduate students in areas that explored the boundaries between petrology, materials science and computational science. In 2011, he retired from James Madison University as professor emeritus of geology.

Roddy is survived by his wife of 43 years, Donna, and his brothers, Joseph and Thomas.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Roddy’s memory to Hahn Cancer Center, Rockingham Memorial Hospital, 2010 Health Campus Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22801. Please indicate “Roddy Amenta Memorial Fund” on the memo line.

Arrangements are being made by Kyger Funeral Home. A gathering to celebrate Roddy’s life will be held at a later date.