Rodney P. Mead, 52, president and CEO of S & A Supply, Great Barrington, Mass., died March 3 of an apparent massive heart attack. S & A Supply hired Mead as its first employee in 1970. He worked in the warehouse, made deliveries and later became a purchasing agent. In 1983 when S & A expanded to Pittsfield, Mass., Mead was named general manager. In 1993, Mead bought Bob Spence's half of the business upon Spence's retirement and became vice president. Mead bought the entire company, which had grown to a third branch in North Adams, Mass., in April 2004, and took the position of president and CEO. His two sons, Brian and Adam Mead, work for the company. Mead was a retired member of the Great Barrington Fire Department and a past member of UNICO of the Berkshires. He was an avid golfer, but above all, he was a family person. “The outpouring of support from our customers, vendors and friends has been tremendous,” said Brian Mead. “He was a wonderful man who touched many people.” He is survived by his wife, the former Nancy Bertelli; his two sons; daughter Sarah Mead; daughter-in-law Trish Mead; two grandchildren; three brothers; and nieces and nephews. Contributions may be made to a trust fund set up for his grandchildren. For information, visit: www.finnertyandstevens.com.