Roberta Anne Rhoads

Born in 1940 to Anita and Charles Schillinger, Roberta lived a life marked by compassion, curiosity, service and a deep love for her family. Whether caring for patients, helping families begin a new chapter in a new country, tending her garden or simply enjoying time with the people she loved most, Roberta had a heart for nurturing others.

A lifelong learner, Roberta graduated from Cranford High School before continuing her studies at Roanoke College and the University of Pennsylvania, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Her passion for learning continued throughout her life and she later earned a master’s degree from Duke University.

Roberta devoted decades of her professional life to healthcare, serving as a Medical-Surgical Nurse in multiple hospitals. Caring for others was more than a profession for her - it was part of who she was. That spirit of service eventually extended beyond the walls of the hospital when she spent several years working with Lutheran Ministries of Georgia, helping welcome and place refugee families as they began new lives and made Georgia their home.

Away from her work, Roberta found happiness in some of life’s simplest and best pleasures. She was an avid gardener, loved watching sports and, more than anything, treasured time spent with her family. Her family was at the heart of her life and the memories, traditions, laughter and love they shared will remain an enduring part of her legacy.

Roberta was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Brinser Rhoads and her grandson, Graham Kitt. Their memory remained a cherished part of her life.

She is survived by her sister, Christine Weydemeyer; her five daughters, Amy Rhoads-Lowry, Kristen Rhoads, Lauren Thompson, Susie Dean and Sara Kitt; her grandchildren, Mackenzie Lowry, Harper Rhoads-McLeod, Noah Saripkin, Jaxon Thompson, Eleanor Dean, Delilah Dean, Lexi Kitt and Jaxson Kitt; her niece, Caryn Kelley; and her nephew, Billy Weydemeyer.

Roberta leaves behind more than the accomplishments of a life well lived. She leaves behind the people she cared for, the families she helped, the lives she touched and generations of her own family who will carry her love and memory forward.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider making a donation in Roberta’s memory to the Wheeler High School Theater and Choral Department. Roberta grew up going to shows in New York City with her father, which fostered her lifelong love and appreciation for the performing arts. She also loved watching her granddaughter, Harper, perform and was always proud to support her. A donation to the theater or choral department would be a meaningful way to honor Roberta’s love of family and the arts.

Please use the links below to make a donation in memory of Roberta.

When making your donation, please include Roberta’s name in the comments section so her memory can be honored and recognized.

Wheeler High School Theatre Department:

https://wheelerhightheatre.ludus.com/donate?type=individual

Wheeler High School Choral Department:

https://whschorus.membershiptoolkit.com/packet/399573711

Thank you for helping us honor Roberta and her love of family and the arts. Your generosity means so much to our family.