Beverly Rhodes

5/10/1943 - 8/14/2025

Waterford- Beverly Rhodes, 82, of Waterford, passed away peacefully Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025. She was born in Springfield, Mass., May 10, 1943, the daughter of Louis and Jean (Gordon) Ratnowsky. She was the wife of Alan Rhodes who survives her.

Mrs. Rhodes graduated from Springfield Technical High School and spent her early years as a children's librarian including time at Waterford Public Library. She had worked as a librarian assistant, retiring after 29 years from Waterford High School. She enjoyed helping students with their research for school projects.

She was a member of Congregation Beth El and was often honored for her volunteer work for the New London Community Meal Center preparing weekly meals and was known for her delicious tuna noodle casserole. She was an avid mahjong player, attending Groton Senior Center games and participating in Mahjong tournaments. Beverly also was a member of the Shennecossett Yacht Club, spending many summers boating on Long Island Sound with Alan, who considered Beverly his first mate. She had great appreciation for arts and craft shows and attended many throughout the year. Beverly expressed her own creativity with a hobby of beading colorful earrings and necklaces for her friends.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by two sons, Craig Rhodes of Waterford, and Jeffrey Rhodes and his partner Yxa Bazan of New York City. She will be remembered by many who loved her warm and nurturing ways and the laughter she inspired with her quick wit and charm. She was predeceased by a brother, Philip Ratnowsky; and a sister, Sheila Berger.

A graveside service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Monday, Aug. 18, in the Beth El Community Cemetery, Lestertown Road, Groton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Smilow Cancer Center in Waterford. The Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.