William Leroy Rhodes

His wife and son standing by, the Angels came to collect William Leroy (Bill) Rhodes, 80, at his home in Charlestown, RI, on December 3, 2024.  After a recent cancer diagnosis, he had been in hospice care for only a week, his illness having progressed very rapidly.  HopeHealth & Hospice was invaluable during that time.

Bill was born in Wellsville, NY on March 30, 1944, to the late Carrie Mae McMurtry and William Leon Rhodes, in the midst of a blizzard, setting the tone for his life and personality.  He joined the Navy in 1962 at age 17, serving first on the Aircraft carrier, USS Shangri La, and later finishing his service duty with Antarctic Support Activities. He was Honorably discharged from the Navy in 1971.

Throughout his life, Bill strove always to rise through the ranks. He demonstrated competence in his work, and fairness toward fellow workers. Following his Navy career, Bill earned an Associate Degree from RIJC, and dedicated the majority of his civilian working life to Kenyon Industries in Sailcloth Finishing. He retired from URI as a Building Superintendent in Housing and Student Life.

Bill was a generous person.  He loved children and animals.  He thoroughly enjoyed years in his roles as a Cub Scout Den Leader, Troop 15 Charlestown, and as a Coach of Recreation Basketball, and of Little League Baseball.  He guided and encouraged, and cared that each child feels an important part of the team.

In later years, Bill attempted to play golf as often as possible (everyday!), and enjoyed the company of many golfing buddies in several local leagues.  If he has his way, he will be playing golf now in the Great Beyond!

William is survived by his wife of 54 years, Dolores A. Rhodes, and by two sons; William Robert Rhodes (wife Dana), Jacksonville, Florida, and Jesse William Rhodes, Charlestown, RI. 

He is also survived by brothers, Robert and Douglas (Janet) Rhodes, NY, and by brothers Joseph (Bev, deceased) Thompson, PA, and Raymond (Peg) Thompson, SC, and by sisters, Gail and Colleen Thompson, NY.  He was predeceased by his brother, Barry Thompson (Judy), and by his sister, Ramona Woods, NY.  He was also predeceased by his uncle, Albert Childs, NY.

Events honoring William’s life will be held in the Spring.

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