Jean Marie Rhoades

Mrs. Jean Marie Rhoades, of Rome, Georgia, passed away peacefully into the open arms of God on January 7, 2023.

Jean was born on August 24, 1944, to Elsie and Joseph Waters in Oyster Bay, NY. She spent her childhood in Oyster Bay and then relocated to West Palm Beach, Florida. She attended Cardinal Newman High School and graduated Valedictorian of her class. Soon after, she met her husband, David. They were married at St. Julianna's Catholic Church in West Palm Beach on November 29, 1963. Jean was a devoted wife and mother. She packed a great deal of adventure into her most important job, filling family life with an abundance of wonderful outdoor experiences that included caring for horses, horseback riding, rescuing and adopting pets, gardening and baking. Jean was a talented seamstress having made her own wedding dress and lovingly made any clothing or costume her daughters or granddaughters could envision. While living in Cedartown for 30 years, she was an active member of St. Bernadette Roman Catholic Church. She faithfully volunteered as an organist and as a religious education teacher.

Her career as an educator began in 1978 after graduating from Berry College. She taught 8th grade Math at Cedar Hill Middle School and was recognized as teacher of the year in 1988. She obtained her Master's degree and Specialist degree from Berry College. She later accepted the position of Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Staff Development of Polk County Schools. Jean earned her Doctor of Education from the University of Georgia. Dr. Jean Rhoades served as interim superintendent and was recognized by Polk School District for 28 years of service. After retiring from Polk County School District, she worked for the Georgia State Department of Education as a Title 1 Coordinator and also taught at Shorter University.

In retirement, Jean and David relocated to Rome and spent their golden years living in Stonebridge in the Berry Forest subdivision enjoying their beautiful surroundings, lovely neighbors, beloved pets and frequent visits from their children and grandchildren. Jean became an active member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and New Roman's Social Club, serving as treasurer and President. The absolute pride and joy of Jean life were her three children and seven grandchildren, who lovingly referred to her as Grammy. She was the consummate organizer and used her boundless energy to instill in each one of them a love for faith, family, and community.

She is survived by her husband, David of 59 years; one son, David Rhoades (Tiffany) of Adairsville, GA; two daughters, Carrie Lankford (Chris) of Rome, GA and Laurie Borick (Ken) of Niceville, FL; seven grandchildren Catherine Lankford, Joshua Rhoades, Taylor Rhoades, Reagan Borick, Ellie Borick, Jay Borick and Luke Borick and future daughter-in-law, Hannah Clark-Babb; also survived by a sister, Sandy Lavigne of Las Vegas, NV and a brother, Tom Waters of Beverly, MA and two nephews, Chris and Mike Sooder.

A Funeral Service will be celebrated for Jean at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 911 N. Broad Street, Rome, GA on Friday, January 13, 2023 at 1pm. With Deacon Stuart Neslin presiding. Following the Service there will be a Graveside Service and Jean will be inurned in the Cremains Columbarium in the Parish Memorial Garden. A reception for friends and family will then follow in the Church's Parish Hall, located on the lower level of the Church.

The Rhoades family kindly thanks Jean's family physician, Dr. Frank Hampton, the dedicated nurses and doctors at Floyd Medical Center, the physical therapists at Advanced Rehab and the wonderful staff and residents at the Renaissance Marquis who continue to provide tremendous love and support to our family.

The family is grateful to all for the many prayers and expressions of support during Jean's illness.

Jean's family has established the Dr. Jean Rhoades Educational Leadership Award that will be awarded annually at Berry College's Honors Convocation. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made by contacting Brenda Jenkins at bjenkins@berry.edu or 706-290-2667.

Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, North Chapel, makes this announcement for the family.