Martha Jane Rhodes

Martha Jane Alexander Rhodes passed away at her home on Sunday, September 14, 2014 surrounded by her loving family. Jane was a granddaughter of two Abilene pioneers, Dr. James Minor (Jim) Alexander and John Guitar, Sr. She was born November 3, 1933 in Abilene to Minor and Ruth (Guitar) Alexander. Jane lived her entire life in Abilene. She was a 1952 graduate of Abilene High School and attended Texas Tech and Sul Ross Universities. Jane was loved for her strong personality and her close connection with her many friends. She was a creative writer and talented artist. She owned and operated a retail gift store called The Golden Door for many years. Jane served on many boards and was a volunteer at the Abilene State Supported Living Center and other volunteer organizations.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her son, William Alexander Rhodes. She will be greatly missed by her daughters, Carol Gibson and husband, Jackie, and Cynthia Kay Rhodes; grandchildren, Brad Gibson, Jack Gibson, Chris Gibson and wife, Tera, and Mike Gibson and wife, Jenee; two great-grandchildren, Landry and Henley Gibson; brother, Jim Alexander; and sister, Jeri Mangum.

Her caregivers were of utmost importance to her – not only in their service toward her but in their genuine care and concern. The family wishes to thank Laura Hargrove, Debra Hunter, and Linda Galusha for their loving care.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, September 17, 2014 from 6:00p.m. to 7:30p.m. at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 5701 Hwy 277 South, Abilene, TX 79606. The funeral service will be held 10:00a.m., Thursday, September 18, 2014 at the funeral home chapel. Burial will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jane’s memory can be made to Hospice of the Big Country or to the charity of choice. To leave an online condolence for the family, go to www.elliott-hamil.com.