Don H. Rhodes

Don H. Rhodes, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend, passed away on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, and is now in Heaven. Don was born on Dec. 3, 1939, in Malakoff. Don was preceded in death by his mother, Lucille Rhodes; father, Jack Rhodes; sister, Wanda Rhodes Kelly; and brothers, Billy Jack Rhodes and Bobby Gene Rhodes.

Don’s greatest joy was his family, whom he loved immensely and wholeheartedly. Don married his soulmate, Linda Peacock Rhodes, and together they shared 64 exciting years of marriage. He was the proud father of his daughter, Donna Lin, and her husband, Myron Palmer. He was a cherished grandfather, “Pap,” to Alex Palmer and Linlee Palmer (Connor Eiland). Don’s joy only grew with the arrival of his great-grandchildren, Madylin Kate Palmer and Stevie Lin Eiland. He was also blessed with bonus great-grandchildren, Stetson Viss and Emersyn Eiland. Don is also survived by his nieces and nephews. Don was especially grateful for his “Earth Angels” – his beloved son-in-law Myron, Bubba, Brenda, Tammye, his nurse John and Sharon who looked after him with love and care.

Alex and Linlee spent many happy days at “the farm,” where Pap always made sure adventures awaited. Together they dug for “gold” and hunted for bears in the woods. Before their visits, Pap would turn small rocks into “gold nuggets” and bury them for discovery. He would cut bamboo into “bear switches” to scare away any imaginary bears. When they were babies, he propped them up on the couch, took out his father’s guitar and sang their first songs – “You Are My Sunshine and Jesus Loves Me”. These memories of laughter, imagination and love will be treasured by his family forever.

Don attended Mineola High School and was a member of the Class of 1958 and proudly served in the United States Army. He retired from Union Pacific Railroad after many years of service. In 1984, when Myron and Donna moved to Oklahoma, he obtained his pilot’s license and bought a plane – an accomplishment that brought much joy to him and Linda. Don also earned his real estate license and enjoyed buying and flipping several homes over the years.

Outside of his work, Don loved being active. He spent many days hunting, fishing, playing tennis and his beloved game of golf. Don and Linda treasured the hours they spent together on the tennis court and golf course, sharing not just the games but a lifetime of companionship and laughter. A true romantic at heart, Don made cookies for Linda on several Valentine’s Days and would leave love notes around the house to brighten her day. On Feb. 2, 2024, Don told Linda, “You gave me the best years of my life, and I thank you for that.”

Don had a natural love for music and enjoyed playing guitar and singing, sharing joy and song with family. A man of curiosity and knowledge, he was a voracious reader, always eager to learn and explore new ideas. He also poured his time and energy into maintaining “the farm,” finding both satisfaction and humor in the hard work and occasional frustration it brought. Don would sit for hours in the deer stand watching the wildlife and often said he felt closest to God among His creations.

Don’s legacy is one of adventure, love, laughter, music and devotion to those who knew him best. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A memorial service to honor Don’s life will be held at Beaty Funeral Home (Mineola) on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, at 2 p.m. Visitation and reception to follow the service at Beaty Funeral Home.