Robert “Bob” William Rhodes, Sr., 93, of Morganton, NC, went home to be with the Lord and his family on Tuesday, July 16, 2024.
Born in Burke County, NC on June 19, 1931, he was the son of the late Frank Murray Rhodes and Lillian Mae Setzer Rhodes. Bob graduated from Morganton High School in 1950 and entered the US Air Force in 1951. He was discharged in 1955 after serving during the Korean War. He received the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. He was an Airman First Class as member of the 99th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, Squadron 348. He spent most of his service time at Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane, WA.
In 1952, Bob married the love of his life, Laura. He was a member of Oak Hill United Methodist Church. He was a member of the Methodist Men, superintendent of the Sunday school, Sunday school statistician, and member of the Wade Aldridge Sunday School Class. Bob was also a member of the Morganton Jaycees and served as a state officer. He was employed with Home Laundry, Skyland Textiles, and Dana Corporation. Bob enjoyed camping, and traveling with his wife and family.
Bob is survived by his wife of 72 years, Laura Galloway Rhodes; son, Robert “Bobby” William Rhodes, Jr. (Carol Buchanan); daughter, Susan Rhodes Propst; grandson, William D. Propst (Sami) and Adam Propst (Susan);
great-grandchildren, Oliver, Keslee, Cole, and Kyle; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by two brothers, Frank I. “Jack” Rhodes and Murray T. Rhodes.
The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, August 3, 2024 at Oak Hill United Methodist Church. The funeral will be held at noon in the church with Rev. Adam Love and Rev. Owen Peeler officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military honors provided by the US Air Force. At other times the family will be at the home of the daughter, Susan Propst.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Oak Hill United Methodist Church, Capital Reserve Fund, 2239 NC 181, Morganton, NC 28655.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Bob was a surrogate father figure for me. When my Daddy passed, he made the loss easier to handle. His life reminded me of where my Dad is. I'm sure they'll be laughing about their daughters antics now. My solace is knowing we'll all be together again someday. Until then, our snowed in Christmas sleepover memories live on. Love you Bob.