Gilbert "Neil" Rhodes, Jr. Ph.D.

When Gilbert “Neil” Rhodes, Jr., Ph.D. passed on Saturday, April 27, we lost more than you might think. His family lost a strong anchor and loving confidant. Neil is survived by his sister Judy Rhodes Effler, her husband Larry and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Gilbert N. Rhodes, Sr., mother, Ruth Jackson Rhodes and many aunts, uncles and grandparents.

Tennessee farmers and agriculture students lost a knowledgeable advisor. Dr. Rhodes became a University of Tennessee Professor Emeritus in 2021 after a four-decade career as a professor and researcher. He was one of those rare scientists as effective behind his desk as behind the wheel of a tractor. Dr. Rhodes was most proud when he shared his expertise with working farmers in the field.

Many of us lost a good friend when Neil passed away. Whether we knew him from his church, the Alcoa High School class of ’73 or from his new hometown in Friendsville, we will miss his generosity to share a smile and a a joke.

The family will receive friends at McCammon-Ammons-Click Funeral Home, Saturday, May 4, 12 - 2pm with a service and burial to follow. In lieu of flowers, please support Middlesettlements United Methodist Church, 2729 Middlesettlements Rd, Maryville, TN 37801 or the Tom Hatcher Charity, PO Box 743, Alcoa, TN 37701-0743.