Final Salute

Ralph Rhodes, 75, of Jefferson Twp., passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday morning, June 24, 2025, in his home.

Mr. Rhodes was born December 21, 1949, in Sharon, a son of the late Charles and Irene (Reno) Rhodes. He was a 1968 graduate of Kennedy Christian High School in Hermitage.

A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Ralph served as a Seabee for four years until being honorably discharged in 1973.

For 35 years, he worked as a millwright at Howell Industries in Hubbard, OH, retiring in 2004. Ralph later worked in the same capacity for Hodge Foundry in Greenville, PA.

He had a lifelong passion for the outdoors. Ralph loved hunting, camping, and spending time on the water, especially while fishing on his pontoon boat at the Pymatuning or Shenango Reservoir. He also enjoyed hunting for deals at auctions and flea markets. A family man, Ralph was a dedicated husband, caring father, and beloved grandpa.

His wife of 47 years, Vicki (VanDyke) Rhodes, whom he married on November 4, 1978, survives at their home in Jefferson Twp.

Ralph is also survived by four children, Jessica Rhodes (Joshua), of Jefferson Twp, Brandon Rhodes (Sabrina), of Hermitage, PA, and Rhonda Taylor and Daniel Taylor, both of West Middlesex; five grandchildren, Kenzie, Kelsey, Maliea, Emilee, and Cailee; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Ralph was preceded in death by two sisters, Evelyn Powell and Rita Redick; and a brother, Charles “Bud” Rhodes.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday (6-27-25) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon.

Military honors will be rendered at the beginning of calling hours by the Wheatland AL and West Middlesex VFW Honor Guard.

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