Daniel R. Rhodes

passed away at the age of 68. He was born in New Bern, NC on May 27, 1952 to Lawrence Daniel Rhodes and Reba Joan (Smith) Rhodes.

Danny graduated from New Hanover High School and UNCW and continually strived for further education. As an avid life-long learner he wanted his children and grandchildren to find joy and success in their own educations.

On April 15, 1973 he married his childhood sweetheart, Sherry Swart Rhodes, and together they raised their family in Wilmington. He greatly treasured the time he spent with his nine grandchildren close to, and far from home. He loved family more than life. His greatest desire was to have as many children of his own as possible. He had such a special love of children that before they were blessed with their own, he and Sherry were first in line to volunteer to babysit. His most treasured job was playing Santa at the Mall for the Christmas season. He will be fondly remembered and sorely missed by the children he met and by whom he was dearly loved. Danny had a wonderful laugh.

A member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he loved the gospel, his Heavenly Father and his savior Jesus Christ. He spent many hours studying and pondering the scriptures. He attended the temple at every opportunity.

He spent his life in service to others. His dedication to service led him to donate blood as frequently as possible because he knew his blood was special and could be vital for sick babies. He never turned down a chance to work for those around him, whether they be friend or stranger.

He was a passionate Genealogist and spent countless hours in services to others in that capacity. He was a volunteer in the local Family History Center for many years. The years he has spent researching his own family tree were some of the most fulfilling and rewarding of his life.

He was an avid gardener and proud of his accomplishment of attaining the certificate as a Master Gardener. He was happiest outside, with the feel of the earth in his hands.

Danny had a special bond with his mother and loved her dearly. He spent many hours, the last few years, in her company and ready to care for her in any way possible.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Rhodes Jr.

He is survived by his mother Reba Rhodes. He is also survived by his wife Sherry Rhodes and children: Christy Sallay with husband Tim and children Lily, Rowan, Oliver and Bodhi; Ashley Rhodes and her daughter McKinley; Jessie Jo Abbott with husband Derek and children Ethan, Logen and Samuel, and Chris Rhodes with wife Kari and daughter Sara and his siblings: Mike Rhodes and wife Gail Rivenbark Rhodes, Steve Rhodes and wife Donna Vause Rhodes and Debbie Rhodes; as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and other extended family as well as many friends and church family.

There will be a graveside service at 10:00am on Thursday, September 3, 2020 officiated by Bishop Roger Van Slyke, held at the Hampstead Latter-day Saint Cemetery in Pender County. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Red Cross.