Dr. Robert S. Rhodes

Rhodes Dr. Robert S. Of Radnor, PA, and most recently Audubon, PA, passed away on February 28, 2024 in Audubon at the age of 82. He was the beloved husband of Paula (nee Wilder) for 58 years and loving father to Robert H. Rhodes (Staci) and David B. Rhodes (Lisa). He is survived by a brother Barry Rhodes, a sister Debra Rhodes (William Simpson Smith) and grandchildren Avery, Emily, Brad, Arabella, and Naomi. Bob attended Cornell University, completed medical school at the State University of New York (SUNY) Upstate in Syracuse, and served in the Air Force. In 1980 he joined the faculty at Case Western Reserve in Cleveland as Chief of the Division of General Surgery where he taught surgical residents, conducted research, became certified in vascular surgery, and was active in local regional, and national medical organizations. In 1988 he became Chairman of the Department of Surgery at the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in Jackson, MS. He expanded his interests with a Robert Woods Johnson award to study Health Care Finance in Baltimore, MD. He worked with the American College of Surgeons developing the early policies relating to the care of patients with HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B. He also worked with the Attorney General of Mississippi to initiate lawsuits against tobacco companies on the adverse effects of smoking and its role in causing peripheral vascular disease. In 1995 he became the Associate Executive Director of the American Board of Surgery in Philadelphia where there was the opportunity to effect standards of practice through the administration of exams for Board Certification. He remained there until his retirement. He was a member of the Main Line Unitarian Church in Devon, and served 25 years on the Board of Directors of UU House Outreach, a nonprofit organization providing support to older adults in Northwest Philadelphia. Bob enjoyed being with his family and friends, playing golf, tennis, and bridge, building model ships, sailing, traveling, reading and book clubs, and live theater. He will be remembered for his quiet demeanor, keen intellect, quick wit, and sense of humor. He was a lifelong student and teacher in many areas. He will be remembered and missed by many. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to UUH Outreach Program, Attn: Sara Popkin, Executive Director, 22 W. Rittenhouse St., 1st floor, Philadelphia, PA 19144. The family plans a private memorial.