Shirley Rhodes

Shirley Rhodes, 85, of Ullin, died at her residence on Tuesday evening, March 7, 2023.

She was born on July 24, 1937, in Ullin, the daughter of William E. and Edna Mae Melvin McHarry.

She married Robert L. Rhodes on April 25, 1959. He survives.

She was a dedicated homemaker, widely known for her love of family, God, and making world-class fried chicken.  

Apart from her homemaking, she previously co-owned and operated The Family Affair Catering, specializing in weddings.  

Later, in their retirement years, they traveled extensively with a goal to visit all 50 states, often bringing their entourage of friends and family along with them for the journey. 

She was an avid crafter, reader, jigsaw-puzzler and game board enthusiast.  But above all else, what she was most known for was her love of family and God.  She lived and taught her own that “family comes first” and expressed her love of God and her church family by her active membership with Trinity Assembly of God, where she served as a Sunday School teacher and with the Ladies Auxiliary.

Along with her husband, Robert, she is survived by her daughters, Rhonda Cochenour, Penny (John) Wamback and Kimberly (Bret) George; her son, Roy Turner, 16 grandchildren; 56 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; her sisters, Evelyn Rarrick, Mary Wood, Terri (Chuck) Brindley and Sally (Jeff) Petree; brothers Roy (Shirley) McHarry and David (Pam) McHarry; numerous nieces, nephews, extended relatives and friends.

Mrs. Rhodes was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Jake McHarry and William “Bud” (Beverly) McHarry; and her infant sister, Betty McHarry. 

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Monday, March 13, at Crain Funeral Home in Ullin, with Pastor Steven Clardy officiating. 

Interment followed the funeral services in the Ullin Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Crain Funeral Home in Ullin was in charge of arrangements.