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BORN
1921
DIED
2020
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Lelia Rhodes Obituary
Jackson, MS - Dr. Lelia Gaston Rhodes passed away peacefully on Monday, December 7, 2020 at her home in Jackson, MS, surrounded by the love of her devoted family, medical staff and friends. Please join us as we remember her life and legacy. She was the:
•First African American to receive the Ph.D. degree from Florida State University (FSU), School of Library Science
•First Woman to earn the Ph.D. degree in Library Science in Mississippi
•First African American to be elected to serve as President of the Mississippi Library
Association (1980)
•President of the Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Inc., 1988-1992
•Employed at Jackson State University, (1944-1953; 1957-1988 - 40 years)
(Dean Emerita of Libraries, Jackson State University)
•Hinds County Election Commissioner, Elected Six Terms (1993-2016)
•Author of "Jackson State University: First One Hundred Years (1877-1977)" - Centennial Edition, and other published works appeared in Referred Journals.
•Member of numerous organizations including: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and The Links, Inc.
•Member of the American Library Association for over 30 years
•Member and Deaconess, Greater St. James Baptist Church, Jackson, MS
•She is the widow of John D. Rhodes, Sr. and mother of two adult children: Marilyn Latson and 1st LT USMC John D. Rhodes, Jr. who preceded her in death.
Viewing
Friday, December 11, 2020
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Greater St. James Baptist Church
1301 Jones Avenue
Jackson, Mississippi
Graveside Memorial Services
Saturday, December 12, 2020
11:00 a.m.
Garden Memorial Park Cemetery
8001 Highway 49N
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Lelia Rhodes
Sponsored by Westhaven Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. - Jackson.
Josephine Gregory
December 7, 2022
My cousin was the first woman to do many wonderful things in the state of Mississippi. As a Black woman I am so proud of her accomplishments.
I do miss her presence , however she completed what God designed her to do here on Earth. May God continue to bless our family and allow us to continue the legacy.
Jo Gregory & Family
Dr. Ruby M Chapman
March 26, 2021
Thank you Dr. Rhodes for giving me the opportunity to be role model for young Black college students on Jackson State University during your tenure. Introducing young Black college students to the importance of primary research and a career in Library Science.
We are colleague and Sorority sisters, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.
Dr. Ruby M Chapman
March 26, 2021
Thank you Dr. Rhodes for giving me the opportunity to be role model for young Black college students on Jackson State University during your tenure. Introducing young Black college students to the importance of primary research and a career in Library Science.
Herman Holly
December 12, 2020
A brilliant and dedicated woman that loved JSU & Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. as well as service to the world. The Lord has finally claimed his own.
Jo Gregory
December 11, 2020
I’m praying for our family and extend condolences during this time. We have so much to be thankful for. What a legacy we have for our young people to admire and strive to follow. My cousin will be missed. A life and job well done!
Coolidge Anderson, Jr.
December 11, 2020
She always exhibited grace and dignity. She elevated her environment.
She will be greatly missed.
Grace Wallace
December 10, 2020
I will always remember the years we worked together. The memories will forever be with me.
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Funeral services provided by:
Westhaven Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. - Jackson3580 Robinson Rd., Jackson, MS 39209
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