SACO- Rodney Carl Mashia transitioned from his physical body on November 29, 2025, at the age of 76. Rodney was at home surrounded by loved ones present for that moment and those from afar with prayer. Rodney was born November 20, 1949, to the late Eloise Riley Mashia and Blenny Mashia Sr. in Norco, LA and was baptized at an early age at the Greater Good Hope Baptist Church in Norco, LA by the late Rev. Dell Parker.
Rodney attended Bethune High School and was among the first African American students to attend the then all white school-Destrehan High School during the Freedom of Choice Integration in 1965. He was interviewed in 2022 as a Trailblazer in the documentary, “Trailblazers: A St. Charles Parish Public School Documentary/Desegregation Recognition”. Rodney continued his education at Xaviar University of Louisiana in New Orleans and following an opportunity to study at Northeastern University in Boston, MA, he decided to stay in New England. He graduated from Northeastern in June 1974 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. He expanded his career as a successful computer programmer.
From Rodney’s sister, Twiggy: “Rodney was quiet in spirit. He always had a love for music. He was a member of the band at both schools. He was a very talented flutist. He also played the guitar for a gospel group at his church -The Christian Echoes.” These are his roots, and music was his ministry. As a Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist, Flautist and Storyteller he reached out and touched the world. His voice and his music educated and healed. His modalities included Gospel, Soul (“Sam Cooke was the Greatest, Singer, Songwriter of all time”), Folk and Kirtan. In the 1980’s Rodney was a member of On Wings of Song Chorus and Band. He remained deeply connected with this community. His current band is The Rodney Mashia Project with gifted musicians Kit Demos, Rich Entel & Frank Sanfilippo. Their music will be shared in the future. Rich wrote to Kathleen this week, “Rodney’s deep connection with his heart, the power of his love and wisdom, and his riveting musical mastery come through so clearly. We are so blessed to have been elevated through his music and friendship.”
Rodney was devoted to his Kindred Spirits Community who have wrapped their arms around one another with Love and Support for 30+years. His family, his communities extended far and wide. It would be writing a book to name all, please know that you are honored here. His work for racial justice was known throughout New England. He noted with a smile how busy his calendar was during Black History Month and was always ready to share his voice for benefits when asked.
Rodney was previously married to Jona Bostwick and from that union two sons were born: Brandon Mashia and Jason Mashia. He said his sons are his greatest accomplishment in this life. Rodney was in a loving relationship with his partner: Kathleen Hiffa McCallum, who cared for him until the end.
Rodney was preceded in death by his parents: Blenny and Eloise Mashia; two brothers: Blenny Mashia Jr. and Darrell Mashia Sr.; two sisters: Sheryl Mashia Williams and Yvette Bering.
He leaves to mourn his passing two sons: Brandon Mashia and Jason Mashia; a very devoted partner: Kathleen Hiffa McCallum; two sisters: Emily “Twiggy” Mashia and Charlene (Carey) Noel; six brothers: Barry Mashia Sr., Bradford Smith, Blenny (Deborah) Madison, Calvin Madison, Alvin Madison, Brandon (Keisha) Lawrence; one uncle: Louis Riley Jr. and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was blessed to spend time with his sister, Twiggy, who traveled from New Orleans by train to make gumbo (best she could with ingredients found in Maine!) and red beans and rice in September. Brother Barry traveled from Georgia in October to “have eyes on my brother”, and to share his forever love.
And Love it is. You can find Rodney’s music and documentaries on Facebook (we will be working on a remembrance page), Reverbnation, Sound Cloud & YouTube. In closing, a quote from his About Rodney on Facebook, “Man must evolve for all human conflict a method which rejects revenge, aggression and retaliation. The foundation of such a method is love.” MLK Jr.
A Celebration of Life, his incredible life, is planned for Spring 2026.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton, www.mainefuneral.com