George "Dusty" Rhodes, MSgt (retired) USAF

October 17, 1931 to December 3, 2009

George "Dusty" Rhodes, born October 17, 1931 in Chipley, Florida, died December 3, 2009 at a local hospital. He was the son of James Andrew and Mannio Mayday Morris Rhodes. He graduated from Chipley High School and began a 20 year career in service to his country in the Army and then later in the United States Air Force. He retired in 1970 at the rank of MSgt. During his service career, Dusty was stationed in Hawaii, Oregon, and Nova Scotia as well as Hurlburt and Tyndall AFBs in Florida. Dusty served in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. After retirement, Dusty worked at Bay Medical Center as well as owning an accounting business. Finally, Dusty owned and operated Callaway Vacuum which he sold in 1992.

Dusty is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, JoAnn Davis Rhodes, one son Thomas Andrew Rhodes (Beverly) and one daughter, Julia Rhodes Ruschmann (David). Dusty is also survived by one granddaughter, Meredith Elizabeth Rhodes, who was the joy of his life. Dusty is survived as well by one brother, Donald Rhodes (Linda) of Chipley, two sisters, Lorene Logue of Dothan, Alabama, and Willadene Hutton of Michigan, two sisters-in-law, Elouise Winslett (Arnold) of Panama City and Betty Lage (Larry) of Atlanta, Georgia, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dusty was predeceased by his parents, brothers, Jack and Byron Rhodes, sister-in-law Valorie Tate, and grandson, Matthew Michael Rhodes.

Dusty was a member of St. Andrew Baptist Church. Everyone who knew Dusty enjoyed his sense of humor. He enjoyed reading, listening to music, and playing cards with friends. In his later months, Dusty was a happy man if he had a good book to read, the music he loved, and family around him.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Ron Sinacrope, Lorelei and the caring staff at the Coastal Kidney/Dialysis Center for their loving, patient care over the past years.

Funeral services will be held on Monday at 11 a.m. in the Wilson Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Michael Claunch and Rev. Eric Ellis officiating. Interment will follow at Evergreen Memorial Gardens with full military honors conducted at the graveside. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 2 – 4 p.m. Those desiring may make memorial donations to the St. Andrew Baptist Church Building Fund in memory of George Rhodes.

Wilson Funeral Home