Rhoda Fennell

NoIt is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rhoda J. Fennell, who departed this world peacefully on March 26, 2026, at the age of 101, at the Fairmount Health and Rehabilitation Center in Willoughby, Ohio. Born on August 9, 1924, in Cleveland, Ohio, Rhoda was the cherished daughter of Ernest and Bessie Plasman. Her life was a testament to resilience, love, and unwavering kindness, characteristics that she embodied throughout her remarkable journey. Rhoda was predeceased by her beloved husband, Howard, and her cherished children, Barbara J. Michalski and Allan “Butchy” Anderson. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Ida Emling, Ernest Plasman, and Nina Koeth, who together formed a close-knit family that she held dear to her heart. She leaves behind her son, Larry Anderson; her daughter-in-law Marlene (husband, Bob) McGuffin; her cherished grandchildren, Mark (wife, Cathy) Golen, Duane Anderson, Jo Ann (husband, Michael) Vaccarino, Steve (wife, Denise) Anderson, and Richard Anderson. Rhoda was also a loving great-grandmother to Gregary Larch (fiancée, Kira), Alex Golen (wife, Stephany), Ryan Golen, Nathaniel (wife, Emily), Samantha Anderson, Jaiden Anderson, Jace Anderson, Zachary Colagross, and a proud great-great-grandmother to little Kinsley Anderson, who brought additional joy and light into her life. 

Rhoda's professional life was marked by her dedication and hard work at the AllenBradley Company in a lead position, where she contributed significantly during her tenure. Beyond professional commitments, Rhoda was a woman of deep faith and unwavering integrity, known for her decisive mindset, sense of humor, and her commitment to serving others. She was a deacon at Boulevard Presbyterian Church in Euclid for decades and her grandchildren enjoyed seeing her teach Sunday School as they grew up in the church. She was always active in events, volunteer opportunities and faithfully kept “Grandpa’s Thrift Store” running out of the church basement. Her spiritual involvement continued by being an active and devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church in Willoughby.

Her passions were as varied as they were vibrant. Rhoda had a green thumb and found peace and purpose in gardening, nurturing plants with the same care and attention she gave to her family and friends. Additional talents included sewing, knitting and crocheting, organizing gatherings, and volunteering. 

Her love for the Cleveland Indians/Guardians was a testament to her enduring spirit and enthusiasm for life, as she cheered for her hometown team every season. As we celebrate Rhoda's life, we remember a beloved matriarch who touched four generations of family with grace and warmth, and whose presence was a blessing to all. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by her family, friends, and all whose lives she enriched. 

A Celebration of Rhoda’s Life and Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 11 am at the First Presbyterian Church, 4785 Shankland Road, Willoughby, OH 44094. Rhoda’s family will receive family and friends in the church fellowship hall following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Rhoda’s name may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, Willoughby, Ohio or a charity of your choice.