Rod Elliott, loved family, beach life

Rodney John Elliott passed away unexpectedly Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, in Arlington, Va.

Born Sept. 29, 1965, in Pittsburgh, Pa., Rod graduated from University of Texas at Austin, where he ran track. He was self-employed and ran Arlington-based companies specializing in stormwater management, hardscape, and landscape for 22 years.

To know Rod was to know his full laugh, vivid sense of humor, and love of socializing. Rod continued to be a diehard Steelers fan, but he always said his and Carolyn’s best decision was moving to the beach to raise their four children. He loved beach life, orange crushes at The Starboard, and running local trails. He and Carolyn walked countless miles on the beach and in Cape Henlopen State Park. They enjoyed European adventures and hiking trips out west. Rod shared his love of skiing with his kids and planned annual ski trips to visit friends in Park City, and later to visit their oldest daughter, Clara, in Colorado. Rod also held a special love for Deep Creek Lake, where he grew up visiting his Carlson cousins and making memories with Carolyn and the kids over the years.

Rod is survived by his mother, Jeri; wife, Carolyn; and children, Clara, Sylvie, Alodie and Nate. He was predeceased by his sister, Terri Lynn; and father, Lawrence Elliott.

He is already deeply missed by his family and friends.

A celebration of life will be private.

The family encourages donations to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention or 988 Lifeline.