James B. RHOADS

1940 - 2015

RHOADS, James B. James Brinser Rhoads (age 75) died Monday, March 30th, surrounded by loved ones in his Sandy Springs, Georgia home. His death was due to natural causes. Born in Erie, Pennsylvania on March 10th, 1940, Jim devoted his life to his nation, profession, church, and family. After earning a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from Lehigh University, Jim went on to obtain a Law Degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. A member of the ROTC during his college years, Jim next fulfilled his requirements by serving in the United States Army. He proudly served in both the Armored Infantry and Judge Advocate General Divisions. Jim ended his distinguished military career 4 years later with the rank of Captain. He was a decorated veteran of the Vietnam Conflict and was awarded the meritorious service and bronze star medals. Jim then went on to practice Law in the Atlanta area for several firms including Fisher & Phillips and Burr & Forman. He joined Wayne Hyatt in 1974 to form Hyatt & Rhoads, a firm specializing in condominium law. He was rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell. He also founded the Benjamin Franklin Legal Foundation, a non-profit public interest law firm organized as a 501(c)(3) public charity. After retiring from law Jim continued to use his superb legal skills to assist veterans at his local VFW post in Dunwoody, Georgia. He was a member of Rock of Ages Lutheran Church in Stone Mountain, Georgia where he served as President of the Church Council on several occasions. Pastor Randy Palm described Jim as an "active and dedicated leader of the congregation". A lifetime fan of classical music and opera, Jim also sang in the church choir. Jim is survived by his beloved companion of 47 years, Roberta Schillinger Rhoads, brother Robert Rhoads and sister Mary Ann Hamilton. He and Roberta raised five daughters: Susie Dean, Sara Kitt, Kristen Rhoads, Amy Rhoads-Lowry and Lauren Thompson. Jim also was survived by his five grandchildren: Mackenzie Lowry, Harper Rhoads-McLeod, Noah Saripkin, Jaxon Thompson and Eleanor Dean. He was preceded in death by his Grandson Graham Kitt. Services will be held at 11 a.m, Tuesday, April 7th, at Rock of Ages Lutheran Church, 5135 Memorial Dr, Stone Mountain, GA. Burial will be held with family and close friends. Relatives and friends are welcome to visit with the family preceding the service at 10:30 a.m. in the Rock of Ages reception hall. In lieu of flowers the family would like you to send donations to the following organizations: Rock of Ages Lutheran Church, 5135 Memorial Dr, Stone Mountain, GA VFW Post 10822 1548 Mt. Vernon Rd. Dunwoody, GA