On July 27, 2026, Richard Lee Rhoades entered the presence of his Lord and Savior. He was 87 years old.

Born on August 8, 1938, in Hicksville, Ohio, Richard lived a life defined by faith, integrity, kindness, and unwavering devotion to the people he loved. To know him was to know a gentle soul who made everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. He was the kind of man whose quiet encouragement left a lasting impact, and whose example spoke louder than words ever could.

Richard was also a proud United States Army Veteran, a role he carried with quiet honor and humility throughout his life.

Richard earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University before beginning a career that would span more than four decades with International Harvester. He took tremendous pride in his work, knowing the trucks he helped design would safely carry people and products across the country but what he cherished even more were the lifelong friendships he built there. International Harvester also gave him life’s greatest gift—it was there he met the love of his life, Pam. His career was never just a job; it was a source of purpose, pride, and lifelong memories.

Outside of work, Richard found joy in restoring his treasured 1968 Camaro, proudly displaying it at local car shows, caring meticulously for his beautiful lawn, studying God’s Word, and spending precious time with his family. Whatever he did, he did with excellence, patience, and attention to detail.

Richard was kind to everyone he met. He was sincere, honorable, funny, devoted, hardworking, meticulous, and deeply loving. He lived by a simple philosophy he often shared with his family: “Kill them with kindness.” Those weren’t just words to him—they were the way he lived every day. He showed that strength could be gentle, that character mattered, and that treating others with dignity was one of life’s greatest callings.

His faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. A faithful member of Leo Methodist Church for more than 50 years, Richard loved studying Scripture and quietly lived out his faith through humility, service, and compassion. One of his favorite passages was Psalm 23, a reflection of the peace and confidence that guided his life:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He leads me beside still waters and restores my soul. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Richard is survived by his loving children: Renee Messmann (Dan), Michelle Cserep (David), Betsy Sholl (Jamie), and Jeff Rhoades (Alyssa); 18 cherished grandchildren; seven treasured great-grandchildren; his sister, Sally Snyder (Mike); special friend, Joanne Gardiner, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives are better because they knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Millie Rhoades; his beloved wife, Pamela Sue Rhoades; and his precious granddaughter, Emma Grace Barnett.

Though our hearts grieve his absence, we rejoice knowing he has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” His legacy lives on through the faith he shared, the kindness he modeled, the family he loved so deeply, and the countless lives he quietly influenced.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 5, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Leo Methodist Church, with a Celebration of Life service beginning at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Leo Methodist Church or Heartland Hospice.