AUDREE M. RHODE
March 31, 1920-Aug. 20, 2012
Audree Merle Rhode (nee Beekman) was born March 31, 1920, in Minneapolis, Minn., to Ethel Adams Beekman and Delus Beekman.
Audree attended the University of Minnesota Business School and House of Fashion.
She married Col. Storm Charles Rhode Jr. of Duluth, Minn., and together they embarked on an adventurous life in the World War II Army Air Corps and post-war Air Force.
Audree was involved with the fashion industry throughout Storm's Air Force career. A handsome woman and poised communicator, she coordinated, commentated and modeled in fashion shows from Massachusetts to Italy to Hawaii.
Her greatest joy was found in her family. She and Storm raised seven children, who continued the pattern of serving their country in the military or in public service, Storm Charles Rhode III, Michael Thomas Rhode, Audree Rhode Severn, Barbara Rhode Stiles, Richard Scott Rhode, Kelly Neil Rhode and Deborah Rhode King.
Upon retirement, Audree moved with her husband to Saudi Arabia. She always described this time as fascinating, even considering the challenges of a different culture and the hardships of desert life as an adventure.
Upon their return stateside, she and Storm settled in Myrtle Beach, S.C., where her impact continued to be felt in the community. She volunteered with the Grey Ladies at the hospital, and served in retiree associations as well as the women's auxiliary at St. Andrew Catholic Church.
She was also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
At the Rhode Runner family reunions, Audree was famous for her three-legged dance.
She nursed her husband, Storm, through a long illness until he passed away Aug. 2, 1994.
Audree moved to Goldsboro in 2005 to be closer to family.
Even into her 90s she continued her selfless community service, crocheting baby blankets for needy wee ones.
Audree was preceded in death by her husband, Storm; her sister, Jane Beekman Eichelzer; and her brother, Charles Beekman.
In addition to her seven children, Audree is survived by her 18 grandchildren and 32.5 great-grandchildren.
She will be sorely missed by her loving family and friends.
A memorial service will be held Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. in the chapel of Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home, with Father Patrick Keane presiding.
The family will receive friends following the service.
Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Rhodes family, and online condolences may be directed to www.shumate-faulk.com.
(Pd)
Published in Obituaries on August 21, 2012 1:51 PM