Geraldine H. Rhodes

Geraldine Horne Rhodes, 86, formerly of Charlotte, passed away peacefully May 15, 2022. Born March 13, 1936 in Iredell County, she was the daughter of Clarence H. and Toyce (McClain) Horne. She was the wife if the late James “Jimmy” Henry Rhodes, to whom she was married for 57 years.

Survivors include her brother, Halbert (Becky) Horne; niece, Heather (Brad) Knox; nephew, Brannon Horne; great-nieces, Ryleigh and Caroline Knox; numerous relatives, friends along with her The Cato Corporation and Cook’s Memorial Presbyterian Church family.

Geraldine was preceded in death by her husband, parents and brother, Jerry Horne.

In 1955 at the age of 19, Geraldine joined The Cato Corporation as Secretary to the officers of the company. For forty-six years, until her retirement in 2001, she was, in addition to numerous other valued positions, executive administrative assistant to Wayland Cato Jr., chairman, president and chief executive officer of Cato. In 1994, Wayland Cato Jr. said, “Geraldine came to work for the company straight out of business school; she had completed a one-year executive secretary course at a local business college. She was hired as Secretary to Wayland Cato Sr., chairman and chief executive officer, jay Emry, director of stores and me. In addition to her role as “Girl Friday,” she became the company’s mother figure. She combined efficiency, tact and a memory for details with great warmth and solicitude. She was not only highly trusted and respected, but as a result of her many years with the company, she provided enormous continuity to the operational side of the business. She was my right hand.” Clarice Cato Goodyear, eldest of Wayland Cato Jr.’s seven children says, “Geraldine was much more than a special employee of The Cato Corporation. Throughout her entire life, she loved and supported Dad’s children through family joys and sorrows. We loved her and will deeply miss her.” John Cato, now chairman, president, chief executive officer of The Cato Corporation says, “Geraldine was a tremendous support to the company and all the associates at Cato. We all are very appreciative of her years at Cato and all she gave to both company and family.”

Geraldine was a member of Cook’s Memorial Presbyterian Church where she was involved and very generous with her time and giving in all aspects of the Presbyterian Women and church functions. She was leader, mentor to young women, well loved, most respected friend and church member. She received the Presbytery of Charlotte’s “Older Adult Award;” and Cook’s Presbyterian Women’s “Woman of the Year Award. She was the church historian for many years; coordinator of the PW Bereavement Committee, Coordinator of the PW Bake Sales for various functions and PW Circle member. She is well missed by her Cook’s family.

The family would like to give Special thanks to the nursing staff of Concord Place and Community Home Care & Hospice.

Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, May 21, 2022 at Cook’s Memorial Presbyterian Church, 3413 Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road, Charlotte, NC 28216; Rev. Jason Bryant, officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at the church. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Forest Lawn West is serving the Rhodes/Horne family. Memorials may be sent to Cook’s Memorial Presbyterian Church. You may offer condolences at www.forestlawnwest.com.