Robert Clyde RhodesHattiesburg, MSRobert Clyde Rhodes, 79, of Hattiesburg, MS, died on May 3, 2017 at Asbury Hospice House after a courageous battle with Parkinson's. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Lynne Simmons Rhodes of Hattiesburg, and 3 sons, Chris (Diane) Rhodes of Lakewood, CO, Jeff (Tryna) Rhodes of Morrison, CO, and Andrew (Erin) Rhodes of Hattiesburg, MS, and one daughter, Cara (Jake) Bostrom of Greer, SC. He also leaves behind sisters Kathy Hyzer of Highlands Ranch, CO, Carol Quintano of Sandpoint, ID, and brother Alan Rhodes of Irvine, CA. Bob was born on March 31, 1938 in Denver, CO to Donald and Mildred (McBurney) Rhodes and grew up in Lakewood, CO. He graduated from Lakewood High School in 1956, Senior Class President, as well as a starter on the varsity basketball, golf and cross country teams. He earned an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University. After working in Southern California in the aerospace industry, he went on to earn a Masters degree in Speech Pathology from University of Colorado, followed by a PhD in Speech and Hearing Sciences from University of Pittsburgh. He began his teaching career in speech pathology and audiology at the University of Wyoming, shortly thereafter accepting a position as department chairman at the University of Southern Mississippi. While balancing his responsibilities at the university, he began and operated 3 locations of Early Years Children Center. After retiring from USM, he enjoyed traveling nationwide as a trainer and consultant in his field as well as working with children on the autism spectrum. In his later years, he enjoyed cooking for family and friends, delivering meals to those who were in need. Bob was a member of Main Street United Methodist Church and over the years served on various committees. His faith was demonstrated in action more than spoken word. He will be remembered for his love, gentleness, and sense of humor. Bob was an avid sports fan with a particular love for Southern Miss basketball, playing golf and watching the Chicago Cubs. He also enjoyed traveling out west to see family and to Europe with dear friends. His greatest joy was his 7 grandchildren: Alex Rhodes; Adam, Zachary, and Bridget Rhodes; Cole, Claire and Jonathan Bostrom. Visitation will be held at Main Street United Methodist Church in Hattiesburg on Sunday, May 21, 2017 from 1:30-3pm. The memorial service to celebrate Bob's life will follow in the sanctuary at 3pm. Friends and family are invited to attend. Honorary pallbearers will be Mr. Brad Guidry, Mr. Hunt Guidry, Dr. Scott Guidry, Dr. Lewis Hatten, Dr. Charlie Parkman, Dr. Dave Roberts, Mr. Curtis Smith and Dr. Bob Thomas.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Main Street United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1009, Hattiesburg, MS 39403 and will be designated for hunger ministries.