TYLER, Texas – Rita Rhodes, a respected and lifelong resident of Tyler known for her deep community involvement and warm spirit, passed away on Thursday, February 21st, 2024, at the age of 80.
Born Rita Black in Tyler on January 29th, 1944, to Harry and Grace (Johnson) Black, she was the middle child, growing up alongside her older sister Patricia and younger brother Charles. Rhodes dedicated her life to her family, community, and faith.
She married Larry Rhodes in Tyler at the First Presbyterian Church on May 29th, 1965, beginning a marriage that spanned nearly six decades. Together, they raised three children, Stacey, Suzanne, and Scott, and were blessed with five grandchildren: Jacob, Chloe, Sophie, Ethan, and Emma.
A proud Tyler native, Mrs. Rhodes graduated from Tyler High School in 1962 before earning her BBA from Baylor University in 1966. She began her career as a teacher before dedicating herself to raising her children. Later, from 1980 to 1995, she was the proprietor of "The Cotton Patch," a cherished gift shop located on The Square in Tyler.
Rhodes was a pillar of the First Presbyterian Church in Tyler, where she served diligently as an Elder, a Deacon, and a Sunday School teacher. Her commitment to service extended throughout Smith County, with volunteer work for organizations including the Children's Advocacy Center of Smith County, Hospice, and the Tyler Arts Council. She was also an active member of the Tyler Service League. In her leisure time, she enjoyed bridge games, golf, gardening, and traveling.
A visitation for Mrs. Rhodes will be held on Tuesday, February 27th, 2024, from 5 PM to 7 PM at Stewart Family Funeral Home, located in Tyler. The memorial service will take place on Wednesday, February 28th, at 2 PM at First Presbyterian Church in Tyler. A private burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to either First Presbyterian Church at [https://www.fpctyler.org](https://www.fpctyler.org) or the Children's Advocacy Center of Smith County at [https://www.cacsmithcounty.org](https://www.cacsmithcounty.org). For additional service information, please visit Stewart Family Funeral Home at [https://www.stewartfamilyfuneral.com](https://www.stewartfamilyfuneral.com).
