Pastor Rodney Bernard "Datdaddy" Comer, Sr

Pastor Rodney Bernard "Datdaddy" Comer, Sr. entered eternal rest on October 20, 2024, leaving behind a legacy woven with love, faith, and dedication. Born July 30, 1960 to Ernest H. Comer, Sr. (deceased) and Mrs. Elizabeth Comer-Sessom (Joe L. Sessom, Sr.), Pastor Rodney grew up on the “Southeast Side” of South Bend, Indiana, a place he always held close to his heart. His journey was marked by resilience and a pioneering spirit, being one of four Black students bussed to the newly integrated Clay High School, where he graduated in 1978. Rodney went on to study at Indiana Vocational Technical College and later at Logos Bible College, pursuing an education that would eventually shape his life of ministry.

Rodney spent sixteen dedicated years working for Steel Warehouse in South Bend, where he began as a general laborer and climbed the ranks to become a crane operator, foreman, and finally the #1 Slitter Operator. His friend and CEO, Dave Lerman, remembers him as a “delightful and thoughtful friend,” a sentiment shared by all who knew him.

Pastor Rodney was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Birdie Mai and Harry O'Daniels, Horace and Mattie Comer, and his cherished uncle James Comer, Sr. He leaves behind his loving wife of 42 years, Tina M. Comer, their three children, Erica C. (Comer) Lee (Nathaniel), Rodney B. Comer II, and Shannon T. Comer, and four grandsons: Nathaniel K. Lee III, Benjamin I. Lee, Rodney B. Comer III, and Kaiser M. Comer. His memory will be cherished by his beloved sisters Patricia (Comer) Winston, Deborah Comer, and his Brother and Best Friend Ernest H. Comer II (Sharon). His beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, aunts, uncles, and friends each held a special place in his heart.

Before embracing his call to pastoral leadership, Pastor Rodney served faithfully for 32 years at Faith Christian Center Church in South Bend, under the leadership of Bishop Clyde and Reverend Dr. Audrey L. Harris. His spiritual journey came full circle when he and his beloved wife, Co-Pastor Tina, were ordained on October 30, 2011. Together, they founded Kingdom Harvest Worship Center on January 1, 2012, where Pastor Rodney’s ministry flourished. He devoted himself to discipling, equipping, and inspiring others, faithfully leading until his final moments.

Pastor Rodney’s love for the Kingdom of God was remarkable, his devotion to people was unparalleled, and his love for the Lord was boundless. We remember him not only for the roles he fulfilled but for the heart and soul he poured into everyone he encountered. His light will shine on through the many lives he touched.

10/29/2024 EJS