Elenora Louise (Spaulding) Rhoades, 96, of South Acworth, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully at home on June 15, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on April 3, 1929, in Marlow, New Hampshire, Ellie was the daughter of Louise (Krause) and Clinton Spaulding. She grew up in Langdon, New Hampshire, and graduated in 1947 from Vilas High School in Alstead, New Hampshire, valedictorian of her class. She went on to attend Becker Junior College in Worcester, Massachusetts.

In 1948, she married Elmer Rhoades, who predeceased her in 1996. Together they built their home on Rhoades Road in South Acworth where she lived for 72 years and raised seven children. Ellie was a devoted homemaker and also worked outside the home at Stonebridge Press, Woodward Florist, and as a receptionist for Dr. David Lawlor, DDS.

She retired in 1991 and spent her later years enjoying time with friends and family, active participation in her church and the serene views from her hilltop home. Ellie was a 4-H leader in Acworth for many years. She and Elmer square danced and belonged to the Pieces of Eight square dance club. She was a long-time member of United Church of Acworth, Acworth Women’s Club, and Acworth Female Charitable Society. She also volunteered at Friendly Meals in Alstead.

Ellie loved to travel and visited many places including Alaska, Hawaii, Egypt, and many countries in Europe. She also enjoyed many cruises with her family.

Ellie is survived by her children: Amy Buffum of Alstead; Peter (Debbie) Rhoades of Alstead; Rhonda (Dave) Jardine of Keene; Jayna (Larry) Morales of El Dorado, CA; Maryann (Kraig) Hilbink of Crossville, TN; Gretchen Hurlburt of So. Acworth; son-in-law, Gary Russell of Atkinson, NH; and sister-in-law, Margaret Bost of Alstead. She also leaves behind many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family who will cherish her memory. In addition to her husband, she was also predeceased by her daughter, Karla Russell, son-in-laws, Wayne Buffum and Herb Hurlburt, sister, Junice Kendall and her brother, Horst Reiprich.

Ellie leaves a legacy of love, compassion and faith. A service in celebration of Ellie’s life will be held at the United Church of Acworth on July 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with committal at the Acworth Cemetery followed by a reception at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the United Church of Acworth, PO Box 2010, Acworth, NH 03601, Fall Mountain Friendly Meals at Friendly Meals/Food Shelf, PO Box 191, Alstead, NH 03602 or remember Ellie by planting a tree or hanging a bird feeder, honoring her love for nature and life.

Arrangements are being handled by Fenton and Hennessy Funeral Home in Bellows Falls, VT.