Michael Ownby Rhodes

Michael Ownby Rhodes, 73, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away on Thursday, January 16, 2025. To know Mike was to know a good man. He was a wonderful father, grandfather, dog dad, and friend. He was our rock and our protector. He had a way of making everyone feel his love. He taught the men in his life how to be a good man, how to fix things and how fathers should treat their children. If anything was broke, he could fix it. He loved being in his garage with his tools and we loved being in there with him spinning on his shop chair. He taught all of the women in his life how a man should treat a woman ad there was no better man for Sheila than him. He never raised his voice and was always a gentleman. He was a dog and baby whisperer. He lit up the room when he walked in, and his energy was amazing. You knew when Mike was coming over it was a time to start the coffee pot and get the sweets Food was the key to his heart. While we mourn the absence of of our sweet man we celebrate the legacy of his kindness, generosity, and love he left behind. We will carry his memory with us always, and his giving spirit will continue to live on in our hearts. We all love you Papaw.

He was born on January 26, 1951 in Knoxville, Tennessee to Huber and Margie (Ownby) Rhodes. He is preceded in death by his father, Huber Rhodes, Sr.; and mother, Margie Rhodes.

Michael is survived by his loving family, wife, Sheila K. Rhodes; children, Mary (Carlos) Rodriguez, Pat (Emily) Lochrico, Kevin Rhodes, Jenna Rhodes, Kari (Chris) Rhodes Watson; brother, Wally (Karon) Rhodes; sister, Deborah Rhodes Hembree; 12 grandchilren; 10 great-grandchildren; fur babies, Gizmo and Gracie-Belle; as well as a host of extended family and friends to cherish his loving memory forever.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 24, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, 10304 Dixie Highway. A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at 12:30 p.m. at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central in Radcliff, Kentucky.