Irwin "Buddy" Joseph Rhodes Jr.

Irwin "Buddy" Joseph Rhodes, Jr. 87, a long time resident of Plaquemines Parish, entered into eternal rest on Saturday, December 8, 2018, peacefully, at his residence in Terrebonne Parish. Beloved husband of Geraldine "Gerry" Gros Rhodes for 63 years.
"Buddy" was preceded in death by his father and mother, Irwin Rhodes, Sr. and Lillian Morel Rhodes; sister, Delores "Dee" Deroche (Speedy); father-in-law, Dalmas Gros; mother-in-law, Angeline Dubois Gros; Brothers-in-law Deoma Gros and Don Rodriguez. He is survived by his children, Stephen Rhodes (Arlene), Byron Rhodes (Wendy), Donna Rhodes Walker (Jerome), Maureen Rhodes Collins (John) and Tanya Rhodes Marino (Barry); 8 grandchildren, Danielle Rhodes Meladine, Christopher Rhodes, Stephanie Rhodes, Jennifer Rhodes Herrin (James), Lindsay Walker Robichaux (Jacob), Sean Collins, Jude Collins, Meredith Marino and 5 great grandchildren, Brooklyn Meladine, Isabella Herrin, Demi Robichaux, Darby Robichaux, and Braylen Rhodes. Also survived by his brothers, Donald Rhodes (Thelma) and Daniel Rhodes (Judy), sister-in-law, Phyllis Gros Bodin (Nolan), and Beryl Rodriguez and brother-in-law, Teeny Gros and numerous nieces and nephews. He was a 1949 graduate of Buras High School and of LSU with a masters degree in education. He served in the U.S. Army for 2 years. He began his career and love of teaching at Buras High School and became the Head Coach of the football team, winning the State Championship with his 1966 team. He later became the High School Principal and retired as Plaquemines Parish Superintendent of Education. He enjoyed his retirement watching football games, camping, and every minute of being with his family. His kind and gentle soul will be sadly missed. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Funeral Mass in the chapel of Mothe Funeral Home, 2100 Westbank Expwy., Harvey, LA on Saturday, December 15, 2018 at 1pm. Interment, Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be held Saturday morning from 10am until 1pm. The family would like to give special thanks to Haydel Hospice, Terrebonne Place, his nieces and nephews and his sitter, Mary Jones for their loving care. Family and friends may view and sign the online guest book at www.mothefunerals.com .