Born in Bournemouth in the mid 1930's, Rhoda Moulding had an eventful childhood. After starting life in care, she returned to live with her parents in London at the age of 6. Shortly after, as a result of an accident, she lost the use of her left hand. Then, at the age of 11 her father was killed. A few years later, she was left homeless along with her mother and brother after their house suffered a direct hit during the blitz.