Real estate developer Ron Rhodes has died 

Businessman and Arkansas State University Distinguished Alumnus Ron Rhodes has died. Rhodes, 78, passed away Tuesday (Nov. 18) according to a social media post by his company King-Rhodes & Associates. 

“It is with great sadness that our King-Rhodes family shares the news of the death of Ron Rhodes … Ron was not only our company owner, broker and agent, but more importantly our colleague, mentor exemplary leader and friend,” the post states. 

A memorial service is slated for Dec. 6 with more details to follow. 

Rhodes, a 1970 A-State graduate with a degree in education, was involved in the real estate business and community development in north central Arkansas for more than 50 years. In addition to being the owner and broker at King-Rhodes & Associates, Inc., he was also a partner in American Land Company, the current developer of Cherokee Village.

He served two five-year terms on the A-State Board of Trustees, including a term as chair, and was named trustee emeritus in recognition of his service. He is a Sustaining Life member of the Alumni Association and a member of the Letterwinners Club. 

He met his wife, Brenda, while they were students at A-State and have been married for 54 years. A Corning native, he was active in numerous community and civic organizations. He was named an A-State Distinguished Alumnus in 2025.