Final Salute

Billy Bridges Rhodes, 89, of Boonsboro, MD, died on October 1, 2023, at Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown, MD due to a short illness.

He was born in Williamsport, MD on June 29, 1934, as one of five children, to parents Wilber Bridges Rhodes and Lena Irene Taylor.

Billy graduated from Boonsboro High School in 1952. He joined the US Navy and spent time in the Philippines with the Naval Construction Battalion known as the Seabees. He was discharged in 1956.

Billy married Barbara Ann Stine in 1957, who gave birth to their only son, William Allen Rhodes.

Billy, known as Dusty, worked for Jamison Door Co. and retired after 36 years as Chief Quality Control Inspector.

He enjoyed gardening and raised a few beef cows for his family. Billy and Barb loved to travel, visiting family and friends, or just sightseeing across the country. They also enjoyed taking cruises with friends and family. But most of all, they enjoyed their time “clubbing”. Billy was a life member of Elks Lodge #378 of Hagerstown and South Mt. Rod and Gun Club. He was also a longtime member of the American Legion #211 of Funkstown, where the grandsons and wives would join them for fun unwrapping “holders” from the tip jars. He was also a member of Williamsport Red Men Lodge #84.

Billy is survived by his wife of 66 years, Barbara Ann; son, William Allen and wife, Mariellen Mittel Rhodes; his grandsons, William Allen Rhodes II and wife, Jennifer Selarno, of Baltimore, and Westley Allen Rhodes and wife, Migdalia Gonzalez, of Austin, TX. He is also survived by one sister, Peggy Kinna, of Florida, many nieces and nephews, and one special niece, Serena Johnikin.

Billy is predeceased by his parents, Wilber and Lena, brothers, Clarence and Elmer, and sister, Nancy Engler.

A Celebration of Life for Billy will be held at a later date.

Arrangements made by Minnich Funeral Home, 415 E. Wilson Blvd., Hagerstown, MD.

Online condolences accepted at www.minnichfh.com.