Roy D. Rhoads, 86, of Coleman, Texas, died peacefully on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Hendrick Medical Center North. He was born on February 27, 1940, in Burkett, Texas.

Roy grew up in Burkett and graduated from Cross Plains High School. He later attended Tarleton State University. Over the course of his working life, he built a path marked by hard work, resilience, and a willingness to meet challenges wherever they were found. He lived in Arizona, Nevada, and California, where he worked as a forest firefighter. He also spent many years in the oil fields as a driller in offshore operations overseas, working in a wide range of demanding environments, including deserts and jungles. After retiring from offshore drilling in 1980, Roy opened R&M Oilfield Salvage and continued working there until 1992. In the years that followed, he embraced the farm and ranch life he loved, caring for his cattle, horses, and land.

Roy also enjoyed the excitement of participating in bull riding in local rodeos while attending Tarleton, reflecting a spirit of grit and determination that remained part of who he was throughout his life. At home, some of the most treasured moments were often the simplest ones. He loved to cook BBQ for his family, and those gatherings became lasting memories for the people he loved most.

He will be remembered for his quiet and loving personality. Roy loved his children and grandchildren immensely and found immense joy in spending time with them. His steady presence, deep love for family, and enduring work ethic shaped a life that will be remembered with affection and gratitude.

Roy is survived by his daughter, Amy Flippin, and his son, Travis Rhoads and partner, Ashley Barns. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Jordan Rhoads and wife Harley, Mason Burkey, Kenley Castleberry and husband Kayden, Cye Barns, and Colson Barns, as well as his great-grandchildren, Harlan and Essie Rhoads, and great-grandson on the way, Trigg Lee Castleberry. He is also survived by his sister, Coralea Kiefer. Each of them carries forward cherished memories of his love, his strength, and the time they shared together.

He was preceded in death by his father, Luther Rhoads; his mother, Addie C. Rhoads; and his brothers, Allen Dale Rhoads and James Michael “Mickey” Rhoads.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 30, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home. A funeral service celebrating his remarkable life will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 31, 2026, at Stevens Funeral Chapel with Rev. Richard Hetzel officiating. Interment will follow in the White Chapel Cemetery. Services are entrusted to Stevens Funeral Home, 400 W. Pecan Street, in Coleman.

Roy’s life was one of work, devotion, and love for family. He will be deeply missed and warmly remembered by all who knew him.

The family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org, the Ronald McDonald House at www.ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org, or to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org.

We invite you to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Rhoads family by signing the guestbook on Roy's tribute page at www.stevensfuneralhome.com. Stevens Funeral Home is honored to serve the Rhoads family.