DeWayne Cody Sr., age 70, was born on August 12, 1955, and peacefully transitioned on January 2, 2026. DeWayne attended Hughes High School, where his sense of style was already turning heads. Known for rocking a suit jacket, jeans, and a fresh Jerry curl, he took pride in his appearance early on—a pride he carried with him throughout his life.

He learned the value of hard work early, working alongside his father as a stone mason, gaining hands-on experience in the trade. But if you were looking for DeWayne at home, you'd most likely find him in the kitchen—because home was the kitchen. Cooking was his love language—and boy was it good!

Much like his mother, Lucille, you never quite knew what he was going to say—but you knew it would be crazy, funny, or both. He was well known for grabbing family members up in public, startling them, then saying, "I thought you was one of mine," turning what could've been a backhand into laughter. DeWayne was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend—a man whose presence brought joy and whose humor kept everyone laughing.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Lucille Cody; his brothers, Anthony and Marcus Cody; his sister, Vergie Bracey; and his son, Linville Holloway.

He leaves to cherish his memory his brother, Louis Cody, Jr.; sisters, Christine Moore and Denice Clark; his children, Tangie Washington, Victoria Washington, Erica Cody, DeWayne Cody, Jr., Wahynea Cody, DeWayne Cody, III, Ashlee Cody, Ciara Cody, Beatrice Cody; along with 20 grandchildren and 22 great- grandchildren; his longtime companion, Crystal Nantz; his aunts and uncles, Ada Bowden, Robert Chiles, Charles Crenshaw, Mary Ward-Thomas, and Doretta (Eddie) Thurman; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Though DeWayne has taken his final bow, his laughter, style, and unforgettable presence will live on forever. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Special Acknowledgments:

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Erica Cody for the intentional care and advocacy she provided for her father. Throughout the week, she checked on him, bathed him mornings before work, returned after long days to ensure he was comfortable, and consistently advocated for his needs.

Special appreciation is also given to his sisters, Denice "Niecy" Clark and Christine "Chris" Moore. Together, Erica, Niecy, and Chris ensured that family was present every day, visiting, advocating, and helping maintain his comfort and dignity. Sincere thanks to his longtime companion, Crystal "Chrissy" Nantz, who stayed overnight with him during many hospital stays, offering steady love and support.

The family is deeply grateful to Brookwood Retirement  Community, The Christ Hospital, Bethesda North Hospital, and Compass Hospice Care for their compassionate and professional care.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, on Monday, January 19, 2026, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati  (45206).   The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation,  beginning at 11:00 am. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy he leaves behind.

He will be laid to rest at Landmark Memorial Gardens.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Cody family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory  is caring for the Cody family during this difficult time.  Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.