Deborah Rhodes Obituary

Deborah "Debbie" Ann Rhodes of Palestine, Texas passed away peacefully after a courageous battle of cancer on March 8, 2025 at the age of 72. Debbie fought with determination and grace inspiring everyone who knew her.
She was born on the 15th of October 1952 in Waco, Texas to her parents, Alfred D. "Jack" Thornton and Alva Jo Thornton.
Debbie was a woman of faith and loyalty. She had a smile that was contagious and always loved to spend time with friends and family. Her faith and values were shown in her daily life. Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to nurturing her relationships and caring for her family. Debbie graduated from Cayuga High School and pursued a career in banking. Debbie was a bank teller for over 39 years beginning her career at First National Bank in Palestine. Hard work, a good work ethic, and dedication were just a few traits that she displayed. She enjoyed her job and getting to visit with all of her customers throughout the years. This brought her so much joy in her life and created friendships that would last a lifetime. She retired from banking and enjoyed spending time with her loving husband, sewing, crocheting, and took on a new role as a grandparent. Her grandchildren meant so much to her and the time spent with them was priceless. The impact she made on their lives will always be cherished. As a devoted wife, mother, and Mimi, nothing brought her more joy than her family. No matter what, you could always count on Debbie in a time of need. Her advice and wisdom will be missed greatly by her family and friends. Her faith was central to her life. She exemplified Christian values in her daily life. Her compassion, thoughtfulness, and strength are traits that will be passed on through her children and grandchildren.
Debbie is survived by her beloved husband of 38 years David Rhodes; daughters Amber West and her husband Jordan of Kemp, Autumn Brown and her husband Randall of Palestine; sons Jared Rhodes of San Antonio, John Rhodes and his wife Debbie of Houston; sister Alisa Gideon and her husband Greg of Athens; and her grandchildren Tanner, Tucker, Emberlynn, Embrie, Michael, Madison, and Mason who will carry her memory forward with love.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred D. "Jack" Thornton Sr. and Alva Jo Thornton, her brothers Alfred D. "Chuck" Thornton Jr., and Taylor Jack Thornton.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, March 15th at Friendship Baptist Church at 2:00 pm with Pastor Jeff Jackson officiating. Family and friends will gather to celebrate Debbie's life and the profound impact she had on all those that knew her. A visitation will be held on Friday, March 14th from 6-8pm at Bailey and Foster Funeral Home. Arrangements have been entrusted to Bailey and Foster.
Pallbearers will be Randall Brown, Jordan West, Jared Rhodes, Greg Gideon, Garrett Gideon, and Chad Thornton.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Heart to Heart Hospice, in honor of Debbie Rhodes for her courageous battle with cancer. Debbie's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her.