Rhoda D. Myett

Rhoda D. Myett, age 91, of Brookline, died peacefully with her son Jesse at her bedside on Saturday, September 28, 2013 at Spaulding Nursing and Therapy Center, West Roxbury. Rhoda was born in New York City, the daughter of the late Perry L and Dora(Rosenberg)Diamond. Her sister Eleanor(Diamond)Gutkin predeceased her as did her former husband William J. Myett. She leaves her son Jesse W. Myett, a niece Dr. Claire Gutkin and her husband Shawn Spilman, grand nephews, Zachary and Jeremy Spilman and their families, cousin Jean Fisher and her children, Mindy Tittlebaum and Dr. Richard Fisher and their families.

Rhoda showed promise in the arts at an early age. At age 14, she received a gold medal for first place in poetry in the New York school system. In the following years, she became accomplished in piano and studied modern dance on scholarship with Martha Graham. Rhoda considered Martha Graham a major influence in her life. Though she wrote volumes of prose and poetry, music and dance were her passion. Rhoda loved New York City and her Brooklyn neighborhood and she came to love Boston too. Some of her favorites were Symphony Hall Concerts(for which she ushered in the late 90’s and 2000’s), Jordan Hall concerts and lectures, Lilac Sunday at the Arboretum, July 4th on the Esplanade, First Night, Revere Beach and the Red Sox.

She hovered daily over the New York Times crossword puzzle and played scrabble often. Rhoda was open to new ideas and the world. She read mostly non- fiction especially books on spirituality, alternative medicine and biographies. She practiced meditation and had a Buddhist spirit. She was quiet in nature and had a keen mind. She lent her voice and time when it was needed. If she perceived injustice she was determined to have it rectified. She encouraged young people and artists to pursue their dreams. Rhoda lived a full life and carried in her being remembrances of her family and friends who had died. She was kind and understanding. Rhoda will be deeply missed by her son Jesse, her family and longtime friends Phyllis, Esther, Eleanor, Suzanne, Mary and her new friends from Centre Street residences and the Brookline Senior Center.

There will be a gathering of remembrance for Rhoda on Sunday, November 10. For more information, please contact Levine Chapels.