On Saturday, May 17, 2025, Hilda Rhodes a loving wife, mother, and grandmother passed away at the age of 64, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Hilda was born on September 7, 1960, in Yuma, Arizona. One of nine children, Hilda was raised in Yuma and graduated from Yuma High School in 1978. On March 22, 1986, she married the love of her life, Daniel Rhodes, and together they raised three daughters: Nichelle (Rhodes) Kopp, Alyssa (Rhodes) Schlichter, and Dani (Rhodes) Lyons.
Hilda dedicated her life to her family. She was always present – driving her daughters to countless extracurriculars, chaperoning field trips, coaching girls’ softball, and planning unforgettable, creative birthday parties. Her unwavering support and love created a home filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories.
In 2016, Hilda and Daniel retired to Queen Creek, Arizona, where she fully embraced her role as a grandmother. Whether it was babysitting, hosting sleepovers, or building elaborate forts, Hilda poured her heart into creating magical moments for her grandchildren.
Hilda had a lifelong love of sports. She enjoyed playing softball, volleyball, over-the-line, and, in recent years, pickleball. She was a founding member of Center Court Pickleball in Gilbert, Arizona, where she enjoyed staying active and connecting with family and friends through the game.
A passionate Arizona Diamondbacks fan, Hilda never missed a chance to cheer from the stands. She had a vibrant sense of humor and a talent for playfully scaring those she loved, often reminding them, “We scare because we care.” Her laugher was contagious, and her ability to bring joy to others will be deeply missed.
Hilda was preceded in death by her father-in-law Daniel; her sister Cecelia; and her brother Albert.
She is survived by her husband, Daniel; Mother-in-law, Mary, her daughters Nichelle (Brad), Alyssa (Regina), and Dani (Mike); her grandchildren Zayda, Lincoln, Braden, Payson, Navy, Keely, Blake, Dakotah and Myka; her sisters Patti, Lucy, Gena, Rosalie; her brothers Mike and Victor; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The Rhodes family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the Ironwood Cancer & Research Center and The Hospice of The Valley team for their care and support.
Service will be held at San Tan Memorial Gardens at Schnepf Farms on Monday May 26, 2025 at 2:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, Hilda would want you to enjoy a frozen margarita at a Diamondbacks game and live every day to the fullest.