Bobbe A. Rhoads

Bobbe A. Rhoads, 78, of Robinson, IL, passed away on November 15, 2022, at Brookstone Estates in Robinson. She was born on June 1, 1944, in Palestine, IL, the daughter of Ray Rhoads & Bettye Jean (Higgins) Judge, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her step-father, Francis Judge; her brother, Mark Judge; and her beloved sister, Raejean Bonson.

She is survived by her brother-in-law, Bob Bonson; her niece, Babette Bonson-Lancaster; her nephew, Brady Bonson; her great-nieces & nephews, Alecia Raeann Bonson, Benjamin Robert Bonson, Josie Rae Lancaster, and Carlie Kay & Colin Vinyard; and her brother, Klay Judge. She is also survived by her family at Brookstone Estates, where she lived for the past six years, as well as a host of dear friends and her companion, her cat, Angel Eyes.

Bobbe grew up and attended school in Palestine, where she became a member of the First Christian Church. Over the years, Bobbe worked for several local establishments, including the Sugar Bowl in Robinson and the Eagles Club in Palestine. She also babysat for several families in Palestine. In later years, she volunteered at JK's Corner Free Store in town.

Anyone who knew Bobbe could attest to her love of children. It comes as no surprise, then, that one of her greatest joys in life was teaching them in Sunday School and Bible School. Those students she taught will fondly remember how she used her hand puppets to both entertain them and bring Bible stories to life. A woman of deep, abiding faith, she spent countless hours poring over the pages of scripture. When she wasn't in her Bible, she would often be singing hymns (or any other song that was on her heart.) It was apparent in the way she carried herself (and in some of the outfits she wore) that she wasn't concerned with how other people saw her. In short, Bobbe Rhoads was one-of-a-kind. Her personality was larger than life, and that humor and joy that we cherished will live on in our sweet memories of her until we meet again!

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 22nd, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine, with Pastor Tim Laymon officiating. In honor of her love of children, memorials may be made to the "NOW Program", which sends supplemental food home with local students on weekends. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

A private burial will be held in the Palestine Cemetery.