Rodney Jay “RJ” Ruiz of Nardin, Oklahoma, passed away on September 23, 2026, in Blackwell at the age of 80 years.

RJ was born on August 10, 1946, in Portland, Oregon. He was the son of Manuel and Virginia (Maxwell) Ruiz. He grew up in Nardin attending Nardin, Public School, graduating from Blackwell High School in 1964, never missing a day of school. Following his education he entered the United States Navy. Following his discharge he began working for the Santa Fe Railroad, he moved to Commerce, Michigan, where he joined the band The Eleventh Commandment as their drummer. He married Pam Swider June 1, 1973, and they made their home in Commerce, Michigan, and he began working as a carpenter. In 1978 they moved home to Nardin and he continued working as a carpenter. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, playing drums, building model trains and flint knapping.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Sharlene, and Sharon; and one brother, Richard.

He is survived by his wife, Pam Ruiz of Nardin; one daughter, Joni Kendrick and husband Adam of Oklahoma City; two grandchildren, Avery and Londyn of Oklahoma City; and numerous, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A celebration of life is scheduled for Friday, October 2, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the Nardin Community Church, with Rev. Eric Fischer officiating.

A memorial has been established in his memory with the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation c/o Robers and Son Funeral Home.