Winnie Rhodes

(From Comanche Funeral Home)

Winnie M. Rhodes, age 87, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, July 13, 2019, in Joplin, Missouri, surrounded by loved ones.

She was born on April 13, 1932, in Comanche County, Texas, to Elbert L. and Mattie Amy (Toby) Adams. She grew up on a farm and loved to work in the fields with her brothers, especially when she started learning to drive a tractor at almost six years of age. 

Winnie graduated from Gustine High School, married and had two sons. After they were born she went back to college. She received a B.S. Degree from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois and a M.S. from Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, Arkansas. She did post graduate work at Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg, Kansas. After 25 years in the regular classroom, Mrs. Rhodes became a Technology Specialist for the school district. She retired after 32 years with the Joplin R-VIII School District, Joplin Missouri. 

As a gifted concert pianist, music was an important part of her life and throughout her life she played piano and organ for various churches. Winnie retired after 22 years as organist for St. James Methodist Church in Joplin Missouri. The last several years she has played piano for Meadowridge Ministries. She was a member of the National Teachers Association and the Missouri National Education Association.

Survivors include her two sons, Dennis H. Rhodes Jr. of Jacksonville, Florida, and Wesley D. Rhodes, of Cincinnati, Ohio; four grandchildren, and twelve great grandchildren.

FUNERAL SERVICES: 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, July 17, 2019, at First Baptist Church of Gustine, Texas

BURIAL: Evergreen Cemetery in Gustine

VISITATION: Family will receive friends at Comanche Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 16, 2019, from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M.

LUNCH: Lunch for the family will be at First Baptist Church of Gustine following the funeral services.