Robinson “Rob” Taylor Rhodes, 79, of Fairport, New York, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2026. He was born on September 24, 1946, and was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose greatest pride was his family.
Rob grew up in Utica, New York, and attended Vermont Academy before graduating from Washington & Jefferson College, where he was a proud member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He later earned his MBA from Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Following college, he joined the Naval Officer Candidate Program, beginning a life defined by dedication, responsibility, and service.
Throughout his career, Rob worked for Security Trust Company, Chase, Paychex, and Kodak. He and his family made Fairport their home for more than 50 years, becoming deeply rooted in the community he loved.
Rob shared 56 wonderful years of marriage with his wife, Karen. Together, they built a loving family and a life filled with countless memories. He is survived by his children, Evan Rhodes (and Allison Cadmus), and Brian and Deanna; and his beloved grandchildren, James and Jack, who held a very special place in his heart. Rob was predeceased by his parents, Benjamin and Jane Rhodes. He is also survived by his siblings, Anne (Terry) Jones and Benjamin (June) Rhodes, along with extended family and many friends who will miss him dearly.
Rob took great pride in taking care of his family and was always there with unwavering love and support. He was not only a devoted husband and father, but also an incredible grandfather. His relationship with James and Jack was especially close, and being their grandpa was one of the greatest joys of his life.
After retiring, Rob continued to give his time generously to the community. He volunteered with the American Red Cross, Fairport Baptist Home, and Fairport’s Tool Thrift Shop. He also served for many years as Treasurer of First Presbyterian Church of Pittsford, where he was also a valued board member. Giving back and helping others were simply part of who Rob was.
Rob loved being outdoors and staying active. He found happiness in gardening, hiking, and walking, biking, and traveling. But above all, his greatest passion was his family. Whether spending time together, enjoying the outdoors, traveling, or simply being present for the people he loved, Rob treasured the moments that brought his family together.
Rob leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, service, and devotion to his family. He will be remembered for the way he cared for the people around him, his love of the outdoors, his commitment to his community, and, most of all, for being a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.
A memorial service will be held Friday, September 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Pittsford.
8 responses to “Rhodes, Robinson T.”
My deepest condolences to the Rhodes family. Sounds like Rob was a dedicated family man and faithful servant. May his memory be eternal as he rests in peace in heaven.
Rob was one of my favorite people to see at the Tool Thrift Shop. Him and Frank were there when I first walked into the small shop and kept being there as it expanded. I’m sorry I haven’t been out there much in the last few years but he made an impression on me. He was always kind and helpful and he had a sense of humor I enjoyed. I won’t forget him and I know he positively affected many people, he was a good human.
I knew Rob and Karen and their sons from my dental office as I was their hygienist for 40 years. Rob was a delightful patient, always friendly and kind.My sincere sympathy goes out to Karen and family.
Rob was a true mentor. At W&J, he and I loved hockey and one winter we both welcomed home to Utica Airport on a snowy Saturday night the then Clinton Comets of the EHA who had just lost to the Charlotte (NC) Checkers. Old chartered Mohawk DC3 limped home with battered and bruised hockey warriors and girlfriends/wives. What a sight and what a night! Rob was ever the adventurer. RIP.
vir quisque vir Rob.
Sam Rock ’66
Lambda Chi Alpha
Rob was the best brother to have in our fraternity (LCA). He was always there for us with words of encouragement or advise. My deepest sympathy, Joe Altmar ’68
One of my oldest friends and brothers from W&J. RIP Rob
A great friend from W&J. And, an even better person. Funny, upbeat and kind. You will be missed.