Richard Dean Rhodes

Richard "Dick" Dean Rhodes, age 80, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at his Columbus, Ohio residence. Dick was a proud Navy veteran who served on the USS Canopus and was a master mechanic. After an honorable discharge from the Navy, Dick started his career with The W. W. Williams Co. as service manager from 1973-1988 at the Miami, Toledo and Columbus offices.  In 1988 he was co-owner of R. G. R. Equipment Corporation in Miami, Florida.  The business was devastated after hurricane Andrew in 1992.  A few years later Dick returned to Columbus contracting private work.

He is preceded in death by parents, Dean & Dolores Rhodes of Columbus; ex-wife, Janet Melfi; daughter, Darlene Drake of Athens Georgia and sister, Marilyn Radich of Columbus.

Survived by daughter, Lori Aguilar, (Rey Aguilar) of Fort Lauderdale Florida; granddaughters, Gina Toro ( Daniel Toro) of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Rachel Drake and Ryann Drake of Athens, Georgia; grandson, Erik Aguilar (Adriana Aguilar) of Orlando Florida; great granddaughter, Zeya Toro; sisters: Barb Dillon of Columbus, Ohio, Linda Henry of Columbus, Ohio, Pattie McKinley (Richard McKinley) of Reynoldsburg, Ohio and Shelly Rhodes of Columbus, Ohio; many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church, 473 S. Roys Ave., Columbus, Ohio on Friday, August 14, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.  The celebrant will be Fr. Patrick Toner.  Immediately following Mass, the inurnment will take place at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Lockbourne, Ohio.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Mary Magdalene for Mass offerings in repose of his soul.  

May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.  Amen. 

Arrangements are being completed with JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY, 2693 W. Broad St.

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