A native of Thibodaux, LA, born to the parentage of Earl J. and Theresa M. Rhodes, Valencia was shaped by deep family roots and a community that she poured herself into. She was educated at East Thibodaux Junior High School, Thibodaux High School, Xavier University of Louisiana, and Nicholls State University. Her calling to serve young people led her to a 27‑year career with the Lafourche Parish School District, where she most recently served as an assistant principal. In every role, she led with compassion, fairness, and a belief that every child deserved to be nurtured and challenged.
Valencia moved through the world with a gentle strength — never loud, never seeking attention, yet always leaving people better than she found them. Her presence --- steady, comforting, and full of light. Those who knew her understood that her greatest gifts were not what she said, but how she made you feel — seen, supported, and loved.
But Valencia’s greatest joy was her family — especially her children. Her daughters, affectionately known as “the girls”, were her heart, her laughter, her purpose. She loved their brunch dates, their movie nights, their naps together, and the simple moments that became cherished memories. Her girls undeniably held a special place in her spirit, and she carried pride in each of her children’s accomplishments and the adults they became. Her beloved dog, Sunny Lee, was her constant companion, always close by. Valencia’s sisters were her lifelong friends, and she shared a sacred bond with a circle of women who loved her deeply — JoAnn, Delisa, Sheena, and Cherie. Even more, she held her sisters‑in‑law close, loving them as her own.
Her faith was steady and sincere, lived through her memberships at Life Church and New Vision Christian Community Church.
As a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Valencia embraced a mission of service that extended far beyond her career. She worked tirelessly to uplift her community, support families, and create opportunities for others. Through Zeta, she lived out the principles of scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood — not as titles, but as a way of life.
Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM until Celebration Of Life Service at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Life Church 2324 Coteau Road Houma, Louisiana.
Valencia is survived by her daughters Cherise Thomas, Candace Thomas, and Camille Thomas, all of Thibodaux, LA. Godson, David E. Rhodes, Jr. and fiancée Renee of Thibodaux, LA; She is also survived by her mother, Theresa M. Rhodes of Thibodaux, LA; brothers, Brian M. Rhodes of Thibodaux, LA, and Dr. Adrian B. (Wendy) Rhodes of San Francisco, CA; sisters Andrea Rhodes, Tremaine Rhodes (Junius “J.J.”) Patterson, and Shannon Rhodes, all of Thibodaux, LA. A host of nieces, nephews relatives and friends.
She is preceded in death by her father, Earl J. Rhodes; brother, Rev. Dr. David E. Rhodes, Sr.; paternal grandparents, Madison and Maggie Rhodes; and maternal grandparents, Izetta Van Buren and Henry Cooks.
To those who loved her, Valencia will always be remembered for her radiant smile, her round cheeks, and the laugh that filled a room with joy. She had a way of making ordinary days feel special and heavy days feel lighter. Her life was a testament to kindness, humility, and unwavering love. Valencia’s legacy is one of love, service, and quiet strength. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her impact everlasting.
