Karen Marie Rhodes

Karen Marie Rhodes, a beloved mother, devoted friend, and treasured member of her community, passed away on June 1, 2026, in Odessa, Missouri. Born on March 4, 1940, in Hawarden, Iowa, Karen lived a life marked by kindness, warmth, and an enduring love for her family and friends. Surrounded by her loving family at the time of her passing, she leaves behind a legacy of compassion and cherished memories that will forever hold a special place in the hearts of all who knew her.

A Visitation will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, June 5 ,2026 at the Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO, 64076, 816-633-5524, with a Celebration of Life beginning at 3:00 p.m. Memorials are suggested to North Kansas City Health Philanthropy, giving@nkchealth.org in care of the Heart Care Clinic. Memories of Karen and condolences for her family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our Facebook Page.

Karen’s journey began in Hawarden, where she grew up surrounded by her parents and brothers. She graduated from Leeds High School in Iowa in 1958 and continued her education at Iowa State University, earning her degree in 1962. Her college years were enriched by her membership in the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority, fostering lifelong friendships and a sense of sisterhood that mirrored her genuine care for others.

Professionally, Karen dedicated many years as an administrative assistant at Terminix, where her attention to detail and friendly demeanor were deeply appreciated. When her children were young, she embraced the role of a stay-at-home mother with grace and devotion, considering raising her family one of her proudest accomplishments. In her retirement years, Karen’s commitment to service and community spirit endured. She worked with the Odessan newspaper and served as a substitute teacher for the Odessa School District, touching the lives of many with her infectious warmth and great sense of humor.

Karen’s life was also filled with simple joys and heartfelt connections. She loved reading, decorating her home, and spending time with friends and family. A passionate member of the PEO and various Bridge clubs, where she instructed classes, introducing the game to dozens of people in a variety of communities. She cherished these communities as much as the shopping trips she enjoyed. Her kindness extended through every aspect of her life, making her a warm and comforting presence to all who crossed her path. In 2024, Karen moved to John Knox in Higginsville, where she continued to bring light and laughter to those around her.

She is preceded in death by her parents Harley & Vivian (Carrel) Watkins and her three brothers: Ronald, George, and Crayton Watkins. She is survived by her children: Greg and Brenda Rhodes of Altoona, Iowa, Becky and Myron Cowman of Odessa, Missouri, and Ann and Chris Palmer of Odessa, Missouri, her grandchildren Alyssa, Jordan, Trent, Ryan, and Erin, her seven loving great-grandchildren. She will be remembered by many other extended family members and friends.