Rhoda Eberle

Rhoda Grimpel Eberle, age 82, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 3, 2025, in Haverhill, Massachusetts.

Born on August 8, 1942, in Freeport, New York, Rhoda was the beloved daughter of Edward and Winifred Grimpel.

A natural nurturer and community activist, Rhoda earned her degree from Keuka College in 1964 and spent her life as a social worker, championing children with special needs.

Rhoda was sassy, soulful, and sharp, and lit up rooms with her wicked laughter, epic stories, and inquisitive conversations. She had a zest for the good things in life— cooking ambitious recipes, gardening, dancing to funk music like James Brown and the Neville Brothers, and making meaningful yet lighthearted connections with friends of all ages.

She enjoyed her time as a youth in the Unitarian Church, especially the Liberal Religious Youth Group, always mentoring and encouraging others to think deeper and live freer. She had the rare gift of making people feel seen and heard—and she made friends wherever she went.

She is survived by her daughters, Britta and Alissa Eberle, her siblings Alison, Scott, Debbie, and Neal, and many nieces, nephews, and beloved friends who will miss her wit, warmth, and welcoming presence.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10 AM on August 8th, 2025, at the Chapel at West Parish, 210 Lowell St, in Andover, Massachusetts. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Planned Parenthood, Doctors without Borders, and Rails to Trails Conservancy.

Her life was her art. Rhoda lived fully, loved fiercely, and left behind laughter, legacy, and a trove of delicious recipes that will remind us always of her love for life.