Obituary of Roberta J. Rhodes

Roberta Jeanette Rhodes, 75, of Tolland, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2022. Daughter of the late John and Jeanette (Zurawski) Lemik, she was born on May 25, 1947, in Brooklyn, NY.

Anyone who knew Roberta would likely describe her as one of the strongest people they knew. She was a cancer survivor and overcame so many obstacles in life that her resilience was remarkable. But for Roberta there was nothing that came before her family, especially her grandchildren who all adored their “Marni”. She even had their initials tattooed on her arm! Roberta most looked forward to hosting Christmas Eve at her house surrounded by family.

Roberta loved to travel, taking yearly trips to Key West with her husband Ed, family trips to the Caribbean, a family reunion to the Outer Banks, and a trip of a lifetime to Italy with her best friend Paula. When Roberta wasn’t traveling, she was a Labor and Delivery Nurse at Hartford Hospital for over 25 years. Her nursing colleagues were some of her best friends and she created lasting bonds with all those she came in touch with.

Roberta is survived by her children, Dan Rhodes and his wife Faith of Vermont, Brenna Napolitano and her husband Todd of Manchester, and Thomas Rhodes of Tolland; her grandchildren Aric, Daniel, Cameron, Silas and Breckin Rhodes of Vermont, and Charlie and Parker Napolitano of Manchester; her brothers Douglas Lemik of Maine and Christopher Denny and his wife Susan of Virginia; brother-in-law Michael Valentino of Vernon; and many nieces and nephews whom she adored. Roberta was predeceased by her son Eddie, her daughter Cara, her husband Edward and her sister, Jeanette Valentino. 

The family would like to thank the staff at Woodlake for their care, compassion, and kindness they showed Roberta over the last few years, especially her favorite aide, Michelle. 

John F. Tierney Funeral Home has taken care of the arrangements. Calling hours will take place on Saturday, October 15, 2022, from 12-2pm. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family.