In Loving Memory of Rodney Scott Belcher

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Rod S. Belcher, who left this world on July 11, 2026, after a long, hard-fought battle with cancer. While cancer may have won the final encounter, it never defeated his spirit, his sense of humor, or his remarkable imagination.

Rod is preceded in death by his mother, Mabel Thornton Belcher, and his sister, Vickie Thornton Ayers.

Rod was a devoted father to his three children, Jon Belcher, Emily Belcher, and Stephanie Keprose. "Pop" couldn't have been prouder of his four grandchildren, Jules, Torri, Sofiyah and Jaxson. Each loved one brought immeasurable joy to his life. Rod also leaves behind his partner in crime, conventions, heart, and life, Nicole J. Phipps. He loved his blood and chosen families deeply, and they will forever carry his love, wisdom, and countless stories forward.

An accomplished author and lifelong storyteller, Rod's gift for worldbuilding invited others to dream, laugh, and escape. When he wasn't writing, there was a good chance he was rolling dice at a Dungeons & Dragons table, plotting the next adventure, or convincing everyone that this campaign would definitely stay on track. (It rarely did, and he wouldn't have wanted it any other way.)

He was a devoted Star Trek fan who believed the best stories challenged us to be better people and to boldly go where curiosity led us. As Captain Kirk said, "Risk is our business," and Rod never stopped embracing life's adventures with courage and heart.

His quick wit, infectious laugh, and ability to find humor even in difficult moments made people naturally gravitate toward him. Throughout his final battle, he met every challenge with stubborn determination and just enough sarcasm to keep everyone on their toes.

He leaves with us his three beloved children, four adored grandchildren, dear friends, fellow adventurers, diverse readership, and fellow authors, who continue to be inspired by the stories he shared. We'd like to think he's now exploring the greatest frontier of all—where the dice always roll in his favor, writer's block doesn't exist, and the crew is waiting with a seat reserved just for him.

A celebration of his life will be held at his home on August 8, 2026, from 8:00am to 8:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family invites attendees to bring a dish to share with all. To truly honor his legacy: tell a story, laugh a little louder, read a good book, or gather with friends for one more game.

As the ink dries on this final chapter, his adventures, laughter, imagination, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Live long and prosper, our beloved author, Dungeon Master, and creator of strange new worlds. Your mission here is complete. See you among the stars.