John Spencer Rhoades

John, a proud and faithful United States Navy veteran, passed away suddenly on January 1, 2026, at his home in the Philippines. His life was marked by steadfast service, deep love for family, and an unwavering commitment to his fellow veterans.
John was the beloved husband of Renia B. Rhoades (née Bachao) and a devoted father to Jade Dickerson (Katelyn), Crystal Newsome (Donnie), Spencer Rhoades, and Melanie McLaughlin (Travis). He was a cherished "Grandpop" to Donnie Jr., Liam, Kieran, and Evelyn, delighting in every moment shared with them. He is also survived by his mother, Margaret Rhoades, and was preceded in death by his father, the late Leonard Rhoades. He is further survived by his loving siblings: Leonard J. Rhoades, FSC; David Rhoades (Kathleen); Stephen Rhoades (Tracey); and Kathleen P. Watts (James). John was a proud and caring uncle to Rebecca, Megan, Sara, and Hanna Rhoades; Mary and Patrick Watts; and many nieces and nephews in the Philippines, all of whom he held close in heart and spirit.
Raised in Northeast Philadelphia, John attended St. Jerome School and later Father Judge High School and Swenson Skills Center, where he mastered the welding trade - skills that reflected his practical intelligence, strong work ethic, and determination. Those qualities carried him through a distinguished 25-year career in the United States Navy, where he served with honor and pride, retiring as a Senior Chief Petty Officer.
Even after retirement, John never stopped serving. He remained deeply engaged in the veteran community, offering his time, knowledge, and voice to ensure others were cared for and respected. He was an active member of American Legion Post 14 in Smyrna, Delaware, and served as Past Vice Commander and Service Officer, tirelessly assisting veterans and their families in securing the benefits they had earned through sacrifice.
In his later years, John made his home in the Philippines with Renia, the love of his life. He embraced the country and its people wholeheartedly, finding joy and peace there. Yet his sense of duty followed him: he helped establish a Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12231 in Manila and proudly served as its first Post Commander. He was a Charter Member, Life Member, and Legacy Gold Member of the VFW, reflecting his enduring dedication to fellowship, service, and advocacy for U.S. military veterans living in the Philippines. The VFW Post 12231 he served so proudly bears the name of a Filipino-American World War II U.S. Army Captain and Medal of Honor recipient, and the Post was officially mustered in April 2024 by none other than the VFW National Commander-in-Chief. Under his leadership, the Post finished with 58 Life Members and 44 Charter Members and was awarded the coveted All-American Post and All-State Team for 2024–2025. His love for his country, and his loyalty to his comrades at VFW Manila Post 12231, were constant and unmistakable.
Beyond his service and leadership, he will be remembered for who he was at heart - his warm spirit, contagious laughter, welcoming smile, old sailor stories, and the camaraderie he created wherever he went. He cherished the simple things that mattered most to him.
John will be remembered as a man of remarkable presence - warm, outgoing, and unforgettable. He could light up any gathering, make friends wherever he went, and bring laughter to the room. Known to many as the life of the party and the undisputed king of karaoke, he lived fully, loved generously, and left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Anchors aweigh. Fair winds and following seas, John.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing on Thursday evening, January 22, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., and Friday morning from 9:00–10:00 a.m. at Faries Funeral Home, 29 S. Main Street, Smyrna, DE 19977. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. at St. Polycarp Church, 55 Ransom Lane, Smyrna, DE 19977. Private interment will take place at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Bear, Delaware.