Billy James Rhodes

Billy James Rhodes, a lifelong resident of Baytown, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2023, at the grand age of 92. He was born in what was known at the time as Goose Creek, Texas to James Oran Rhodes and Opal Elizabeth Williams Rhodes and lived on the same parcel of land from birth until his recent need for assisted care.

Billy is survived by his loving wife, Maxine Tolleson Rhodes with whom he has shared an amazing marriage of 72 years. He was predeceased by his parents as well as his son Ricky James Rhodes.

Billy finished school in Baytown. He then went on to serve his country in the Army. He was a Rank Sergeant and served in the Korean conflict.

Billy had a long career with Gulf Oil and was a well-respected leader there. He had many special assignments, which included being a start-up specialist in Canada as well as Korea. He was an operations specialist for the construction of BA-117 at the time of his retirement which occurred shortly after Gulf Oil became Chevron.

Billy was a devoted husband and member of Garth Road Baptist Church. He enjoyed seeing the country while traveling in his motor home after he retired. He also spent years perfecting his skill at dominoes and loved organizing groups of people to play. He was a patriot and loved his country. Billy’s love for his family was strong and he was willing to help anyone when in need.

Billy was adored by his wife. He will be deeply missed by her as well as his many nephews and nieces. There are also many close friends from the community that will miss him, especially some special guys that he took under his wing while working at Gulf/Chevron.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff at The Waterford at Baytown - Assisted Living as well as Traditions Health Hospice. Billy’s life was most definitely enhanced by the care and love shown by them during his time at The Waterford.

Funeral services will be held at 11am on Wednesday, February 22 at Navarre Funeral Home in Baytown with Pastor Doug Harris officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Cedarcrest Cemetery.