Christian Gary Rhoades

Christian Gary Rhoades, 27, of Hayesville, passed away Friday, Jan. 24, 2025 unexpectedly in a tragic car accident. He was a native and life long resident of Clay County. Christian was a skilled carpenter and jack-of-all-trades. He worked in construction and enjoyed every minute of it. Christian loved being outdoors. He loved exploring the mountains and building campsites from scratch. He enjoyed digging ramps and ginseng. One of his favorite spots was Buck Creek. Christian enjoyed fishing, hunting, riding dirt bikes with his group of friends. He also adored animals and couldn't help but smile anytime a dog was nearby. He was a well-mannered young man, a true southern gentleman, a rare find these days. Christian had a heart of gold. He was easy to love and his family and friends will cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Rosemary Sue Clark; his paternal grandparents, Pearl Donald and Marjorie Rhoades; and uncle John L. Diggelmann Jr.
He was the son of Tanya Diggelmann and Gary Rhoades both of Hayesville.
In addition to his parents, he is also survived by a daughter, Kyleigh R. Schoelzel, of Benton, Tenn.; one sister, Brittany Rhoades, of Hayesville; maternal grandfather, John Diggelmann and wife, Cheri, of Liberty, S.C.; maternal step-grandfather, Larry Clark of Hayesville; close friend who was like a brother, Jacob Bruce, of Warne; two nieces, Harper Rhoades and Makenna Worley; one nephew, Easton Worley; also several aunts, uncles and cousins.
The family will receive friends from 2-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1 at Truett Memorial Baptist Church followed by words of comfort provided by Rev. Keith Nuckolls to begin at 3:30 p.m.
Ivie Funeral Home, Hayesville: www.iviefuneralhome.com is in charge of all arrangements.