Rodney Lynn Furniss, 75, of New Philadelphia, passed away on January 29, 2026, at Ohio’s Hospice Truman House, with the love of his life by his side.
Rod was born on July 9, 1950, in Dover, Ohio, the son of the late James Byrd Furniss and Mary (Peroni) Furniss. He was a 1968 graduate of New Philadelphia High School and continued his education at Hocking College, where he earned an associate degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Rod enjoyed a tremendously successful career with Joy Manufacturing/Howden, where he served as a Nuclear Products Manager. Highly respected in his field, he was invited into the American Nuclear Society, a testament to his expertise and dedication for the service of his nuclear power customers. It was at Joy Manufacturing that he met the love of his life, Eileen E. Smith. After six years of courtship, they were married on August 18, 1990. Together, they shared a life filled with travel with family, friends and work, and countless cherished memories.
Rod took great pride in his home and yard, where he could often be found mowing, trimming, and tending to his beloved garden. He especially enjoyed growing garlic and sharing it with friends, a hobby he maintained all his life. Known for his great sense of humor, Rod loved gathering with family and friends around the backyard firepit, where laughter was always plentiful. Additionally, he enjoyed following Ohio sports teams.
He was an avid NASCAR follower and attended many races with friends. A car enthusiast, Rod owned a 1982 Oldsmobile Toronado and enjoyed attending car shows, especially alongside his dear friend, Doyle McCombs. He was also an avid collector of many different items his entire life and found satisfaction in hard work and hands-on projects.
Rod was a proud member of the New Philadelphia VFW #1445 and the Elks Lodge #510.
He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Eileen Furniss of New Philadelphia; his sister, Melodie (Ron) Johnson of Dover; his granddaughters, Stella Tompkins and Morgan Esber; his nephews and nieces, Ross (Katie) Johnson, Travis Johnson, Nathan Furniss and Monica Blevins; and his sister-in-law, Audrey Lewis.
In addition to his parents, Rod was preceded in death by his daughter, Brianne L. Furniss, in 2020, and by his brother and sister-in-law, James A. and Diane Furniss.
Rodney Lynn Furniss will be remembered for his devotion to his family, as a praying man, his strong work ethic, his love of the outdoors, and the warmth and humor he shared so freely with those around him.
No public visitation or services are scheduled.
Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory
116 Second Street NE, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663
www.geibfuneral.com
Geib Funeral Service
5600 North Wooster Avenue, Dover, Ohio 44622
Geib Pet Crematory
5600 North Wooster Avenue, Dover, Ohio 44622
Memorial contributions in Rod’s memory may be directed to Ohio’s Hospice, 716 Commercial Ave. SW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663, in gratitude for their excellent care of Rod in his final days.