Rhonda Collini

Rhonda Collini, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away in Norman, Oklahoma, on September 17, 2025. She was born on April 8, 1951, in Fort Dix, New Jersey, to John Tindall Wooden and Eunice Charlotte (Welch). After her birth in Fort Dix, Rhonda moved to Noble, Oklahoma, in 1952. She later settled in Norman in 1969, spent several years in Muscatine, Iowa, beginning in 1978, returned to Noble in 1983, and made Norman her home from 1984 until her passing.

Rhonda’s life was filled with music, laughter, and boundless energy. She loved Irish songs for their lively spirit, cherished the golden oldies of her teenage years, and found peace and beauty in classical music. Green was her favorite color, and her idea of a perfect day included sushi with crème brûlée for dessert, good conversation, and a warm hug goodbye. She delighted in the sound of children playing, clever jokes with impeccable timing, and the simple joy of family.

Rhonda believed in loving with a whole heart. She often said that shielding oneself from hurt only blocks the possibility of something amazing. Friends and family remember her as a loving mother, a caring listener, and someone who was genuine to a fault, always her true self.

Her energy was legendary. Rhonda set state records and earned gold medals in the 100 and 200 yard dash at the 1988 Sooner State Games for her age group. She played on an all-women’s amateur soccer team, the Rogues, who won at least one state championship, and she coached soccer for five years. In the mid 1980s, she also played two seasons on O’Connell’s coed softball team. To Rhonda, every challenge was an adventure waiting to be embraced.

Education was important to her as well. She earned her paralegal certification and an associate degree from Muscatine County Community College. Above all, Rhonda cherished her family. She is survived by her sons, Christopher Ian Pagel of Oklahoma City and Nathan Patrick Pagel and his wife Allison Nicole Pagel of Norman, as well as her adored grandchildren, Michael Pagel and Maximillian Pagel. Many other family members and friends will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A service to celebrate Rhonda’s life will be held at a later date.