Jody Rieken

Jody Rieken, 51, of Johnson City, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at Methodist Hospital Hill Country in Fredericksburg.

Jody was born on March 18, 1974, in San Angelo, Texas, to Jimmy and Kay Rieken. He grew up in Ballinger and graduated from Ballinger High School in 1992. He went on to dedicate over 25 years of his life to the telephone and internet communications industry.

Jody had a deep love for the outdoors, especially fishing trips to the coast with friends and family. He also had a passion for travel—never passing up the chance to head out on a road trip, particularly to catch a football game.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy and Kay Rieken; and grandparents, G.W. and Susie Gurley; and Rufus and Dorothy Williams.

Jody is survived by his brothers, Jay Rieken and wife Vicki, and Kerry Rieken and wife Abri; nephews, Chance (Rebecca) Rieken, Daniel Rieken, Chase (Amber) Bowman, and James Bowman; and great-nieces and nephew, Brooke, Rachel, and Raylan. He is also lovingly remembered by many extended family members, as well as his devoted lifelong friends, Shawn, Krista, and Cade O’Banon, who were family in every sense.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and staff at MD Anderson Cancer Hospital in Houston; Methodist Hospital Hill Country and HCM Hospice of Fredericksburg for the compassionate care Jody received.

Jody faced his illness with strength and grace, and his warm, infectious smile will be deeply missed. A celebration of Jody’s life will be held at a later date to honor his memory.