It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of retired brother Rod Rhine on February 24th, 2026. Rod dedicated over 36 years of service to American Airlines, joining our team in 1978 and later taking on a leadership role as a Plant Maintenance Mechanic in 1992. He continued to serve in management until his well-deserved retirement in 2014.
As we mourn the loss of our brother, we ask that you keep the Rhine family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Our deepest condolences go out to them as they navigate this challenging period.
Rod’s legacy will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of working alongside him. His dedication, expertise, and leadership will not be forgotten.
May we take comfort in the memories of his time with us and celebrate his life and contributions to our union and American Airlines.
Rodney James Rhine
August 5, 1959 — February 24, 2026
Claremore
Rodney James Rhine, 66, passed away on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family, following a long-fought illness.
Rod was born on August 5, 1959, in Claremore, Oklahoma, to Samuel James and Nancy (McDaniel) Rhine. A lifelong resident of Rogers County, he attended school in Verdigris and Catoosa before moving to the Sequoyah area. During high school, Rod was known as a gifted athlete, excelling in football, baseball, and basketball. His talent and dedication earned him recognition as Rogers County Player of the Year. He graduated from Sequoyah High School in 1977.
On July 1, 1977, he married his high school sweetheart, Shelly Sorber, whom he met while playing Legion baseball in Claremore in 1975. Together they made their home in Claremore, where Rod first worked in the heat and air business for Buck Murry before beginning a long career with American Airlines. With more than 35 years of service, he worked his way up to Facility Manager Director. He held that position until retiring in 2015.
To say Rod had hobbies would be an understatement. In his own words, he wanted to “use his body up” before his time came—and he gave it every shot. He enjoyed scuba diving, skiing, riding bicycles and motorcycles, assembling and flying his own paraglider, earning his pilot’s license, and owning several planes, including his beloved Piper Cub. He loved big boats and running them full throttle. He loved the wind in his hair. He loved being a part of nature and hunting. He hunted many big game animals such as bear, elk, and deer, trusting only the ammunition he personally loaded.
Rod was an accomplished builder and handyman. He built two homes himself and completed a log cabin project on Grand Lake with help from his family. He was always ready to help his children and friends with any project. What some called a slight hording issue he called his “museum” of parts and supplies—where there was a good chance he had exactly what you needed.
Above all, Rod was a devoted family man. He was present at every event, coached little league baseball and softball and even rodeo for his children, and later proudly cheered on and coached his grandchildren from the sidelines. Over the last couple of years even though he was battling his sickness, he found a way to be there for grandchildren. His willingness to help extended beyond family to any friend in need.
An avid Oklahoma Sooners fan, Rod held season tickets for many years and rarely missed the OU–Texas game. When once asked by a reporter what he would be willing to pay for a ticket, he famously replied, “There is no limit for a game like this.”
Rod was a member of Cedar Point Church, the Masonic Lodge, and served as a Shriner. He lived life to the fullest and left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Nancy Rhine; his grandson, Brock Morgan; and his great-granddaughter, Charlotte Morgan.
Rod is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Shelly Rhine; daughter, Mandy Morgan and husband Jerry; sons, Rodney Rhine Jr. and wife Kim, and A.J. Rhine and wife Megen; grandchildren, Wyatt Morgan and wife Cassidy, Saige Morgan and fiancé Dalton McNally, Summer Morgan, Luke Rhine, Cal Rhine, Jack Rhine, and Baker Rhine; great-grandchildren, Sadie and Rhett Morgan; sister, Tammy Thomas and husband Rick; brother, Scott Rhine and wife Robyn; along with many other extended family members and friends.
Rod will be remembered as a man who worked hard, played hard and loved deeply, and lived boldly. His legacy of faith, family, and adventure will continue through the many lives he touched.
Visitation
Thursday, February 26, 2026
1:00 – 7:00 pm (Central time)
Cedar Point Church