Roderick Steven Rhodes (Lansing)

Roderick Steven Rhodes, known affectionately as Steve, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 29, 2024, in his hometown of Lansing, Michigan at the age of 70 years old. He was born on Saturday, May 29, 1954, the beloved son of Samuel and Louise Rhodes and cherished brother to Sam, Kirk, Diana, Laura Kay, and Malcom "Butch". 

Steve's heart found its match when he met Patricia “Patti” during their high school years at Waverly High School in Lansing in 1973. Their love blossomed into a beautiful marriage that welcomed four children, Roderick II, Tamara, Danielle, and Ra’chael. Steve was a dedicated father who took immense pride in his family. Steve dedicated 18 years of his career to Motor Wheel Automobile Factory in Lansing, Michigan before retiring at a young age from the automobile industry. Soon after his retirement years Steve also perused a career at St. Lawerence Hospital in Lansing Michigan. Durning his retirement, he devoted himself to nurturing the bonds he held dear with his children, grandchildren, siblings, and extended family. He was a man of many talents, excelling in hospitality, music, culinary arts, maintenance, and property management. His diverse skills reflected his zest for life and eagerness to help those around him. Some of his most precious moments were golfing and fishing with his family. Steve also enjoyed collecting automobiles. Steve’s relationships with his parents, siblings, children, and grandchildren, nieces, and nephews were characterized by love, laughter, and mutual support. Our family will continue to celebrate Steve’s life, honor his legacy, and the countless memories created with family and friends. His spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

 He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Roderick II, Tamara (Christopher Henderson), Danielle (Melvin Leaphart), and Ra’chael (Terrance Cooper); beloved grandchildren, Raven, Anissa, Roderick III, Raheem, Eric II, Elijah, Jayden, Emery, Zion, Rayann, and Isaiah; great-grandchildren, Gahaad II and Malayah; siblings, Kirk (Jackie), Laura Kay, and Malcom "Butch"(Karen); many cherished nieces and nephews, Tia, Tearri, Damion, Diana, Adell III, Anthony, and Brandon; brother-in-law, Adell (Claudria) Flourry II; many other relatives and friends. 

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Patricia, as well as his parents; brother and best friend, Sam (Eunice); beloved and precious sister, Diana Flourry; and niece, Little Diana.