Ronald Gene Rhodes August 8, 1951 – January 15, 2026

Ronald Gene Rhodes, known to most simply as Gene, passed away Thursday, January 15, 2026, at the age of 74.

Gene was born on August 8, 1951, and lived a life marked by hard work, strong opinions, quick humor, and a heart that made room for just about everyone. He never met a stranger, and if you crossed his path, chances are he spoke to you, joked with you, or told you exactly what he thought. Those who knew him best also knew that whatever came up usually came out. Gene was often heard saying, "It is what it is.", which demonstrated his resilience and good nature.
Gene proudly served his country in the United States Navy, including time stationed in Naples, Italy. By trade, he was a carpenter—someone who built things with his hands and appreciated a job well done.
Family was important to Gene, and he loved his children deeply. He once admitted that when his son Glenn was born, he was so tiny that Gene was scared to hold him. But Gene's life stands as a witness that his love carried through the years—steady and unmistakable.

Gene and his wife, Peggy, shared 50 years of marriage together, and February of 2026 would have marked 51 years. Their life together was filled with dancing at the Moose Lodge, friendships that spanned decades, and memories that will continue to echo in the lives they touched.

Gene had a fondness in his heart for older folks. He enjoyed keeping his vehicle shiny and spotless and loved anything with horsepower and a good-sounding exhaust. He was known for cooking pigs, telling colorful jokes, and bringing laughter wherever he went. He could be short-fused at times, but he cooled off just as quickly as he heated up and moved on with the business of living.
In recent years, Gene especially enjoyed time spent talking with friends at Kurt's shop, Sanders Auto Parts, and with his buddy, Bip. Those conversations—full of stories, laughter, and sprinkled with truth—are great memories for those who shared them.
And if you ever had one of Gene's pecan pies—especially if your name was Mike—you knew you were loved.

Gene attended Baysden's Chapel Church in Richlands, and his service will be officiated by Pastor David Jarman.

He is survived by his loving wife, Peggy Rhodes of Richlands; his son, Glenn Rhodes and wife Amy of Potters Hill; his daughter, Donna Camell and husband Robert of Pink Hill; his sister, Debbie Hatcher and husband Phil of Chinquapin; his brothers, Mike Rhodes and wife Becky of Raleigh, and Billy Rhodes and wife Mary of Clayton; and his cherished grandchildren, Isaiah Rhodes, Zoey Shoup, and Baylee Raynor.

Visitation will be held Monday, January 19, 2026, from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Community Funeral Home in Beulaville.
Graveside services will be held Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at East Duplin Memorial Gardens in Beulaville.

Gene leaves behind a legacy of honesty, laughter, hard work, and connection. He spoke his mind, loved his people, and lived fully in the middle of life. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Community Funeral Home of Beulaville is honored to serve the Rhodes family.