James Rhodes, known fondly as Keith, changed residence to his heavenly home on November 16, 2023, at the age of 55. He was born on February 19, 1968, in Hendersonville, North Carolina, and his untimely departure has left a void in the hearts of all who knew him.
Keith’s dedication to excellence served him well in his 33 years at Kyocera Industrial Ceramics. He approached his work with diligence and commitment, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues. Outside of his professional life, Keith loved the outdoors. If he wasn’t zipping around on his mower or volunteering himself for more yard work, he enjoyed fishing on nearby lakes, early Saturday morning yard sales, and visiting waterfalls with his wife.
Keith’s relationship with God led him to become a valued member of French Broad Baptist Church for over ten years. His faith played an integral role in shaping his character and guiding his actions. Alongside his church involvement, Keith proudly represented his community as a lifelong resident of Henderson County. He graduated from East Henderson High School and served in the Army, exemplifying his commitment to his country.
Anyone who knew Keith could tell you he was a real salt of the earth man. He was respected by everyone, humble, generous, and blessed with comedic timing that could light up a room. He had an unwavering desire to help others and was always there to lend a hand to anyone in need. Keith loved big, with patience and resilience, he was reliable in every way. He will be missed by us all.
Keith is survived by his beloved wife Janet Elizabeth Rhodes, whom he shared sixteen beautiful years with, Keith was also cherished by his father Sherrell Bentley Rhodes and mother Barbara Anne Rhodes. His memory will forever be treasured by his son Tyler Rhodes, and his wife Dallas Rhodes of Hendersonville, his daughters Emily King of Etowah, and Megan King of Weaverville, and son Ryan King of Swannanoa. Keith’s precious grandchildren Penelope, Emoree, and Gemma brought immense joy into his life.
Keith found solace in the companionship of his twin brother John Kenneth Rhodes and his wife Angie Rhodes, as well as his brother Sherrell Scott Rhodes and his wife Tina Rhodes, and their son Bradley Rhodes and his wife. Additionally, he held a special place in his heart for his beloved “Nanny,” Patricia Ann Hansen. Keith’s impact extended far and wide, and he was loved by countless others who are impossible to list.
A celebration of Keith’s life will take place on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 11:00 am at French Broad Baptist Church, with Pastor Kemuel Pruitt leading the service. As we gather to honor his memory, let us remember the warmth, humor, kindness, and selflessness that defined Keith’s life. May his legacy inspire us to find joy in the simple things, support those in need, and love one another unconditionally.
The family has a go Fund Me and it can be found here.
My thoughts and prayers are with you Janet. Praying for your family as well during this most difficult time.
Keith will be missed by all who knew him. His kindness, faith, and compassion was exemplified in his service and love for others. We hold his precious family in our hearts and prayers.
My prayers for the entire family. It is so hard to lose someone especially someone so young. Love to all of you.
We are new to the neighborhood but have had enough time to enjoy and appreciate Keith’s kindness. He helped us in many ways, always with a smile and a good story. We will miss seeing Keith around the neighborhood, smiling and greeting everyone he passed. Our prayers are with Janet, Emily, and the family.
Beautifully written words for a man who deserved no less. Such a humble servant of the Lord who truly cherished his wife, loved his children, and adored his grandchildren. He did so much for so many never wanting recognition or accolades for it. I loved talking with him whether it was over something with Church duties, the vehicle he drove to church that day, or giving him a hard time for the fact that he loved starbucks . He was a good man, and his passing will leave a large void. My prayers will continue for the family and my beautiful friend Janet who inspires me everyday with her faith, strength, grace and love.
Keith was a good man who lov d his precious wife dearly. If you knew him you knew he truly loved the Lord. I am thankful to have known him. God bless his family.
Having trouble loading pic on here for some reason. Sorry.
This comes as an extreme shock to me. Keith and I were good friends back in high school and a few years after that before our lives went separate ways. I have been living in West Virginia with my wife 15 years now. Keith was always an upbeat person and fun to be around. We used to hang out together all the time when we were younger. We worked together at Bi-Lo when we were in high school. A small group of close friends back then. I have a picture of four of us together, right after we got out of the military, I believe it was. This is such a shock. Whoever wrote this article about Keith did an amazing job. It totally captured who he was. I take comfort in hearing about the faith that he had, and knowing he is with God now. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. I am so very sorry for your loss. -Jerry Bishop
In the 80’s at the beach
Kenneth, Angie and the family so sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family.