Barbara Ellen Whittenberg Rhodes

Barbara Whittenberg Rhodes died Wednesday, June 24, 2009 following complications after surgery. Born a military daughter on May 3, 1946, Barbara became a military wife on October 16, 1974. Most of her childhood was spent in Biloxi. She was a 1964 graduate of Biloxi High School and part of a five generation heritage at First Baptist Church of Biloxi. After military life had taken her to destinations including Guam, Florida and Hawaii, Barbara’s strong Mississippi roots and even stronger love of family drew her and John back to Biloxi upon his retirement. Barbara’s profession as executive secretary and her natural affinity for people enabled her to serve well in employment positions at First Baptist Church of Biloxi, Walter Anderson Museum, Mississippi State Port Commission and the Harrison County Tourism Commission. It was in her personal life, however, that Barbara’s love and passion shone. Faith, family and music were her passions. The strong rock at the center of her blended family, she was always available to meet needs and hear concerns of family members despite her numerous serious health problems. She was a tireless and loving caregiver to her elderly mother, extending that care to fellow residents at her mother’s care center. Barbara’s stellar soprano voice was memorable. She was an integral part of the music program at First Baptist Church and shared that voice with the community on various occasions, including as soloist for Keesler AFB’s annual Messiah presentation. Unwavering faith in her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ carried her triumphantly through a serious of trials and delivered an undeniable message of hope and victory to all who witnessed it. Barbara was predeceased by her parents, Lloyd and Nettie Whittenberg. Left to cherish her memory and continue her legacy are husband, John R. Rhodes; daughters, Ellen Dujmov (Mike) and children Justin Gunther and Kristyn Dujmov; Carol Brunson and children, Kyle and Kelsey; Laurie Mullins (Carl) and children, John Thomas and Lauren; son, Michael Rhodes and children, Savannah McDermott and Sarah Grace Rhodes, all of the Biloxi-Gulfport area; sister Betty Burt of Charleston, SC; eight grandchildren, two nephews and a niece. Funeral service will be Monday, June 29, 2009 at 12:00 noon at First Baptist Church, Biloxi, with visitation two hours prior. Interment will follow at the Biloxi National Cemetery. The family prefers memorials to National Parkinson Foundation, Inc. Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, Pass Road, Biloxi is in charge of arrangements. View and sign register book @www.bradfordokeefe.com