Richard Francis Rhoads

Richard Rhoads, 75, passed away November 21, 2025 in Jensen Beach, FL. Richard, who lived in Florida most of his life, was a loved and highly respected husband, father, grandpa, and great-grandpa who will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife, Carol, and his five children: Michelle Landreth (Thomas Mumford), Marcy McMahon (George), Kristen Vencel, Jonathon Rhoads (Siedah), and Brittany Rhoads and his two step children, Brian Mackie (Amelie) and Erin Ramlackhan (Vijay); fifteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Richard is also survived by his siblings: Raymond Rhoads (Joanna), Sharon Moffitt, and Larry Rhoads (Melody) as well as many extended family members, friends, and former co-workers who looked up to him as a man of integrity, kindness, and steadfast support. Richard was preceded in death by his father John Rhoads, his mother Frances Rhoads, and his brother-in-law, Albert Moffitt. He was also preceded in death by his former spouse and mother of his five children, Phyllis Harrell.

Richard was an avid fisherman, sportsman, and lover of the outdoors who knew the Florida waterways like the back of his hand. He loved being outside and enjoying the water, the breeze, the sun, and time out on his boat. He worked hard, played hard and instilled an unbreakable resilience and a strong moral compass into the lives of his children and grandchildren. His love for life, for music, for fishing, and his ambitious nature and get-it-done attitude will be carried on and treasured by his family and friends who he was always ready to show up for, again and again.

Richard worked for Publix starting out as produce clerk in 1971 and climbed the ladder to Regional Director. Eventually, he retired in 2016 after a fulfilling career that impacted all who came across his path. He was a faithful employee, a tough but fair leader, and someone who lifted those around him up.

In addition to his time with Publix, Richard had a short stint in bull riding and served in the US Air Force Reserves for six years. He was a life long learner and enjoyed projects that improved his home and the life of the people he loved.

Above all, his love, unwavering commitment, and generous support for his family is the highlight of his legacy. He taught his children and grandchildren what it looked like to show up for others with heartfelt intent. As the years went on, his reliable presence continued to be a source of security and unconditional love that was, and will continue to be treasured by all who loved him, especially his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Over the past 12 years, he and his wife Carol Rhoads traveled the world, built their dream home, and spoiled their grandchildren endlessly. He spent most of his retirement cherishing Carol and their families and enjoying the good life that he didn’t take for granted.

His philosophy was simply making others feel valued. In his words, “Give 100 percent in everything you do everyday, and treat people honestly.” And that is how he lived.

A celebration of life will be held in the new year. The family will take this time for now to remember and honor him together throughout the coming holidays, a time that was special for Richard and his family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the charity of your choice or the Florida Oceanographic Society