Leon "Gary" Rhodes

Leon Gary Rhodes, known fondly to everyone as Gary, passed away peacefully at his home Thursday afternoon, June 4, 2026. Born on July 28, 1933, Gary’s life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and quiet strength. He was a lifetime resident of the Stapleton-Wrens area, where he nurtured deep roots that touched friends and family alike.

Gary attended school in Stapleton and Wrens but left early to work on the H I Lewis Farm, marking the beginning of a life dedicated to both labor and community. At 22, he entered the Army in 1955, serving honorably until his discharge in October,1956, after which he embarked on a distinguished career as a welder with Lewis Steel Works. Spanning 26 years, his service there laid the groundwork for his entrepreneurship; he founded Gary Rhodes Welding and operated it until his retirement in 2005. Even after officially retiring, Gary's passion for his craft led him to continue welding until his health no longer permitted.

Beyond his professional achievements, Gary was a devoted family man whose love for farming was a cherished pastime. It was in June 1961 that he met the love of his life through mutual friends. They married in October 1962, embarking on a lifetime of love and devotion. Family was his foremost priority; he was a steadfast provider and a man who embodied the very essence of devotion and care.

Those who knew Gary remember his very dry sense of humor and easygoing nature. He exuded a quiet calmness, never given to anger, and carried himself with a gentle strength. His faith was central to his life; after accepting Jesus as his Lord and Savior, he served faithfully at Waldens United Methodist Church until 2005 at which time they joined Wrens United Methodist Church, now known as Wrens Christian Fellowship Church.

Gary treasured moments spent hunting and fishing and found great joy simply being in the company of family and friends.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Dianne Harden Rhodes; his children, Randy Rhodes and wife Patti, and Renae Usry and husband Brian; six grandchildren—Kayla McNair and husband Jared, Grayson Rhodes and wife Alexa, Nicholas Borum, Logan Borum, Lauren Usry, and Evin Usry; and two great-grandchildren, Dylan Murphy and Stella Rhodes. He also leaves behind a network of extended family, cherished church family, and friends who will sorely miss his presence.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Nina Lorene Hadden Rhodes and William Calvin Rhodes, and his brother, Billy Rhodes.

A visitation to honor Gary’s remarkable life will be held from 12:30 – 2:00PM Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at James Funeral Home. Following this, a funeral service will be conducted in the James Funeral Home Chapel at 2:00PM with Rev. Ron Dixon officiating. Interment with military honors will take place at Waldens Church. Honored to serve as pallbearers include Nicholas Borum, Logan Borum, Jared McNair, Grayson Rhodes, Evin Usry and Harold Howard. Honorary pallbearers are Raley Clements, Elam Dudley and Larry Rhodes.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the staff of Trinity-Piedmont Hospice, with a special thanks to Linda McNair Guffey, for their love, compassion and professional care.

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Waldens Cemetery, c/o Cliff McGahee, PO Box 877, Wrens GA 30833.

Leon "Gary" Rhodes peacefully took Jesus' hand and journeyed to his forever home in Heaven, leaving behind a legacy of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and boundless love. His memory will remain a guiding light to all who had the privilege of knowing him.