Thora Rhoades Gill's Obituary
Mrs. Thora Rhoades Gill, 86, passed away Wednesday, October 9, 2024, in Muskegon. She was one of nine siblings, born October 16, 1937, to Stefnir Runolfsson and Johanna Methusalemsdottir in Iceland. Thora came to the United States in 1956, choosing to settle in Flint, Michigan. Soon after, she married Irving Dale Rhoades, and together they had three children. The family relocated to Muskegon, Michigan in 1966. Thora married again following Dale’s death (1986) to Thomas Gill. They lived together in North Muskegon, Michigan for nearly 34 years, with winter months spent in Mission, Texas after retirement. They enjoyed many fun years together, entertaining family and friends, most notably with gatherings on their deck for Tom’s famous fish-fries. Thora was a kind, deeply loving, and uniquely talented, creative soul who loved to sew, craft porcelain dolls, garden, keep a clean house with a stocked pantry, and bake and cook wonderful meals for her family and friends. Thora loved being a grandma, generously and selflessly giving them the gift of her time and talents. Her deep faith guided her throughout her life, loving through prayer and daily devotion, she strived to be her best self and serve others. In her own words, she “loved by doing.” Thora’s legacy will live forever in all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.
Thora is survived by her husband, Tom. Children Kelly Jean Rhoades Dumler (Jeff; Allison), and Kevin Shane Rhoades (Julie; Kasie, Kathryn, Christopher). Oldest daughter predeceasing her, Kathleen Lou Rhoades (John Meyer; Kaitlin). Stepchildren Debbie Reimersma (Tim; Cass, Laura) and John Gill (Sandy).
In keeping with Thora’s wishes cremation has taken place with a service to remember and celebrate her life to be held Monday, October 21, at 2:00 PM at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Service, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. On-line condolences may be left at sytsemafh.com.
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