Charles Rhodes

Charles Edward Rhodes, 66, of Morganton, Georgia, passed away peacefully while surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at his home. Charles was born October 10, 1957, in Charleston, WV to Charles Rhodes and Betty Smith.

Following the passing of his parents at a young age, Charles' aunt, Elizabeth Issel, stepped in as a mother figure for him during his teen years, as well as his uncle, Junior Wickline, as a fatherly influence.

He is survived by his wife, Deirdra Rhodes; son, Michael (Brittani) Rhodes; step-son Jason (Melissa) Helmadollar; step-daughter, CareyAnn (Heath) Poole; grandchildren; Rhyan & Maddux Rhodes, Justin Helmadollar, Ashley (James) Smith, Joshua Helmadollar, and Savannah Davis; great-grandchildren, Faith Marie and Paxton James.

He is also survived by his sisters, Debbie Lucas, Angela Hebert, Nedra (George) Maxwell, Terry (Wendell) Pernell; brothers, Bud (Joan) Wickline, Jerry (Tammi) Pernell, sister-in-laws, Lana McElroy, Marcia Pfeiffer, Debbie Case and Claudia Turek.

Charles proudly served in the United States Army and the Air National Guard. Some of his many experiences in service include his time as a member of the 55th Combat Aviation Company, transporting dignitaries and flying the DMZ in PANMUNJOM. He continued his service as a member of the 1st Battalion 111th Aviation Regiment where he proudly flew the AH-64 Apache.

He served in Korea, Germany, and El Salvador and finished his time in the service earning the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3.

Charles retired from the United States Postal Service after thirty years of service. He began as a carrier and retired as a Customer Service Manager.

Family was very important to him and he deeply loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them. He particularly took his duties as a grandfather very serious. He will be remembered for his powerful legacy, stories, and invaluable life lessons.

In retirement, Charles enjoyed living in the mountains, watching the deer, and his woodworking hobbies.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Tides Officer's Club, 1001 North Highway A1A, Patrick Air Force Base, FL 32925 on Friday, April 19, 2024 at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers the family request that donations be made to Ridge Community Church at www.theridge.cc/give.

Cochran Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Charles Edward Rhodes; you may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.