Luther Jairus Rhodes

Life Reflections of Chairman Deacon Luther Jairus Rhodes

Chairman Deacon Luther Jairus Rhodes, affectionately known for his wisdom, sharp style, and kind heart, entered eternal rest on September 8, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born on March 5, 1933, in Crawfordville, Georgia, Luther grew up with strong family values that guided his life. As a teenager, he moved to Tennessee to live with his siblings and begin working. Shortly thereafter, he relocated to Newark, New Jersey, where he met and married the love of his life, the late Flourie Snell Rhodes.

Luther was a dedicated and hardworking man. He worked many years as an industrial worker with Seton Leathers in Newark, New Jersey, before returning to Georgia in 1985. There, he served Wilkes County Public Schools as a custodian until retirement. Never one to be idle, he continued working with Taliaferro County Transit, where he joyfully served seniors by ensuring they could attend appointments, go shopping, and enjoy outings with dignity and care.

A faithful servant of the Lord, Luther was a devoted member of Greater Level Hill Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as Chairman of the deacon board and choir member. His leadership and stewardship were recognized by the Taliaferro County Board of Commissioners, who honored him in 2021 for 21 years of dedicated service.

Luther had many passions that brought joy to his life and to those around him. He loved mowing his lawn, gardening, tinkering with projects, and sharing stories saturated with wisdom. Known for his “meteorologist predictions,” he had an awe striking ability to forecast the weather with accuracy. He was always impeccably dressed, often sporting a sharp hat, three-piece suit, and polished shoes, a reflection of his pride and dignity.

He often shared words of wisdom such as, “Love the Lord always,” “When God says go, go; when He says stop, stop,” and “Save something for a rainy day.” His stewardship, resourcefulness, and unwavering faith in God left an indelible mark on his family and community.

Luther’s greatest legacy is his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Flourie Rhodes of over 60 years, two daughters, Carolyn Pierce and Barbara Rhodes, and his grandson, Eric Pierce.

He leaves to cherish his memory three children: Michael Billups of Raleigh, NC; Tesha Harris Wilson of Selma, NC; and Alicia Welcher (Jonas) of Raleigh, NC. He was a proud grandfather to Hakeem Johnson, Haleema Johnson, Hassan Johnson, James Johnson, Rasheeda Jordan-Oliver (Ellery), William Rhodes, Jarrett Pierce, Sharnea Pierce, Brieana Murray (Austin), Jerelle Perry, Jr., and Anasia Perry; his sister, Gladys Little of Detroit, Michigan; He also leaves behind 27 great-grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, and countless others who were touched by his life.

Above all, Luther Rhodes was a man whose reputation preceded him. His life was a living testimony, speaking louder than words. He will be remembered as a devoted servant of God, a faithful steward, a loving father and grandfather, and an example for generations to come.