Rhonda Jean Epperley

Rhonda Jean Epperley, 62, of Marion, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025, just two days before her 63rd birthday. She was born on October 16, 1962, in Staten Island, New York, to the late Noble E. Mezo and Mavis K. Houston.

Rhonda lived a life full of laughter, love, and light. She had a gift for making friends wherever she went — from strangers in the grocery store to lifelong friendships that became family. She was the life of every party, the silly one in every photo, and the first to make someone smile when they needed it most. Her personality was magnetic, her laugh unforgettable, and her heart one of a kind.

She was deeply loved by her husband, Robert Epperley; daughters, PJ Rothschild and Sarah Rothschild, bonus sons Matthew Stewart, Matthew Epperley, Mark Epperley and Michael Epperley; and her grandchildren, Kloie Lopez, Marleigh Rothschild, Kyler Lopez, Ryder Lay, Kayslee Lopez, Stetson Mead, and Brighton Stewart, Matthew Epperley, Gracie Epperley, Harper Epperley, and Brantley Roethler.

Rhonda is also survived by her siblings: Greg Mezo, Kevin Mezo, Marsha (Randy) Schnarre, Bradley Mezo, Noble (Renee) Mezo, Michelle Hamlin, Gene Mezo, and Kevin Jarvis. Nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews who were more like her bonus children, cousins and all of her many friends she considered family.

She was preceded in death by many family members and loved ones, and she gets to continue to be her favorite role here on earth, being Meme but to her grandson in heaven, Creedance Stewart.

A proud member of Marion Elks Lodge #800 since 2020, Rhonda found joy in serving her community — from proudly carrying the American flag at games and parades to volunteering whenever help was needed. She also worked as the Pharmacy Purchaser at the VA Medical Center, where she built lasting friendships and was looking forward to retirement.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Blue Funeral Home under the direction of Binkley-Ross.  Visitation will be on Monday, October 20, 2025, from 4–6 p.m. at Blue Funeral Home located at 1704 North Court Street, Marion, followed by the B.P.O.E. memorial service and a short service from 6–6:30 p.m.

Rhonda would want everyone who knew her to live life to the fullest, never waste a minute, and never miss a chance to tell someone how much they mean to you. Her favorite saying will forever echo in the hearts of those she touched — “Hey girl, hey!”

Her laughter, love, and light will continue to shine through every person she made smile.

Please visit www.binkleyross.com to leave online condolences.