James Lee "Jim" Rhodes

James Lee “Jim” Rhodes passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, surrounded by the people who loved him most. He made the world a brighter place just by being in it. To know Jim was to love him—and many people did. He will always be remembered for his contagious laugh, kind soul, and deep love for Jesus and his family.

Jim was born on November 29, 1947, in Maryville, Tennessee, to John Edward and Jenny Mae Rhodes. Though he lived in many places over the years, the Smoky Mountains always had his heart. As the youngest of nine children, he proudly held the title of “spoiled baby brother” and wore it well.

Jim enjoyed the simple things in life. He was a devoted husband, a proud dad, and a fun Papaw. He had a way of loving people with his whole heart and somehow made it effortless for everyone to love him back. If you knew Jim, you probably shared a laugh with him.

After Jim surrendered his life to Jesus, everything changed. His faith was real, steady, and contagious—just like his laugh. That same faith gives his family great peace today, knowing this isn’t goodbye, just a “see you later.”

Jim is survived by his wife of 46 years, Connie Rhodes; his daughters, Wendy Atkinson (Tony) and Jessi Allen (Rudy); his grandchildren, Zack, Case, Hagan, and Annie June; his great-granddaughter, Catherine; his brother, Fred Rhodes (Norma); and his sister, Edith LoPresto (Don). He also leaves behind a whole lot of friends and extended family who will miss him dearly—but will forever smile when they think of him.

A celebration of Jim’s joyful life will be held on May 10, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home in Pearl, MS. Come ready to laugh, remember, and celebrate the life of a man who made ours better.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Amazing Grace 247 in Jim’s memory. www.amazinggrace247.org