John (Poppy) Rhodes went Home to be with the Lord on January 6th, 2025, on his 67th wedding anniversary to his loving wife, Bette Jane Rhodes.

John was born under the summer sun of 1938 in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, a place he would always hold dear, to the late Ruby and William Rhodes. He enjoyed a simple and happy country youth with his younger brothers, Ben and Joe, and he often recounted hilarious stories of their adventures to the joy of all those fortunate enough to sit and listen and laugh with him.

John served his country honorably, his military career spanning the Air Force, Army, and Coast Guard.

John and Bette were devoted and loving parents to Debbie (Steve), Tammy(Mark), Karen(Stepehen), Chrissy(Mark), David(Alison), and Will(Lynn), as well as being Poppy to 13 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

John never met a stranger; he loved to talk and smile and laugh with everyone he met, especially on his travels abroad in his retirement. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and churchmates, and loved watching football and NASCAR after church on Sundays. He liked the outdoors, from filling a 1972 VW bus with his family to camp the wilds of Alaska to fishing the piers of Fort Monroe with his boys, even when one of them hooked his hand, leading to a trip to the ER, during which he never once raised his voice to said son.

Poppy was the best husband, father, grandfather, neighbor, friend, and brother-in Christ that anyone could ever ask for, and he will be sorely missed but often fondly remembered.

After a private graveside ceremony, with military honors; a memorial service will be held at 2:30 PM on Monday, February 3, 2025 at Calvary Assembly of God Church, Hampton.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to Calvary Assembly of God Church, 1380 North Mallory Street, Hampton Va 23663, or online click here