Willie Rhoden, Sr., at the blessed age of 70, made his heavenly transition on June 17, 2018.  Born in Bessemer, AL, he had been a resident of the Akron community for most of his life.  He was retired from UPS after many years of dedicated service, was a member of Teamsters Union #24 and a faithful member of United Baptist Church where had served on the Usher Board. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Jones Rhoden; father, Edward Sipp; sister, Sally Williams; brothers, Charles R. Cunningham, Rayfield Rhoden and Curtis J. Rhoden and brother-in-law, Fred Williams, all of Akron. To forever cherish his beloved memory, he leaves a son, Willie (Yolanda) Rhoden, Jr.; daughter, Elaine Rhoden; his special and devoted friend, Dierdre Williams, all of Akron; brothers, Albert (Sondra) Rhoden of Barberton and Melvin (Eleanore) Rhoden of Midlothian,Virginia; sister, Marie (Clyde) Thornton of Akron; grandchildren, Kenyata Littlejohn and Marcellus Newsome; special friend, John Gordon and a host of loving  nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and many dear friends.