52-year-old Denton homicide detective, father dies after battle with COVID-19

Denton Dective Rodney Mooneyham was a coach for his son’s baseball team, the Dirtbags, and spoke highly of his daughter’s swimming achievements.

Mooneyham was a devoted husband, father, and detective who loved his kids.

But tragedy hit the Mooneyham family on Saturday as the 52-year-old homicide detective died after battling COVID-19, according to Denton police in a Sunday news release.

“Rodney was the kind of person that people enjoyed being around,” Denton police said in the news release. “He will be dearly missed by all. Please keep Rodney and his family in your thoughts and prayers.”

Mooneyham started his career with Denton police in November 2010, becoming a detective in July 2017 and assigned to general investigations before transferring to the major crimes unit in June 2019.

While in major crimes, Mooneyham led several homicide investigations and took part in numerous high-profile cases.

“As a dedicated detective and team player, Rodney was vital in the successful apprehension and prosecution of numerous violent offenders,” Denton police said.

Mooneyham received 9 commendations during his time with Denton police, including a Chief’s Commendation.

Throughout his career, multiple community members contacted the department to express their appreciation for his service and compassion when answering their calls for assistance. The supervisors and officers who worked closely with Mooneyham also expressed praise for his work and his care and concern for others.

“Rodney was always smiling,” Denton police said. “Always willing to listen, he checked on his friends and coworkers regularly.”