James Rhodes, 89

James T. Rhodes, 89, of Red Oak, passed away after a brief illness Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, at the Methodist Hospital in Omaha.

James Thomas Rhodes was born to Leo F. and Mary G. (Smith) Rhodes Nov. 22, 1922, in Norborne, Mo. James was raised in Montgomery County and graduated from Red Oak High School in l940.

He entered the U.S. Army Jan. 20, 1943, serving in World War II, and was honorably discharged Feb. 19, 1946.

Following his military service, James returned to Red Oak and worked for Cozy Air and Fox-Finley Chevrolet.

He married Ellen Waters Oct. 13, 1951, in Shenandoah.

For 34 years, he worked for the U.S. Postal Service, first as a window clerk and later was a rural carrier, before retiring.

James enjoyed fishing and working on cars. Following retirement from the post office, he enjoyed helping his brother-in-law on his farm.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Red Oak.

James was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ethel Anderson; and brothers, William Rhodes and John “Dusty” Rhodes.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ellen Rhodes, of Red Oak; two daughters, Sheree Rhodes, of Red Oak, and Carol Rhodes, of Des Moines; two nephews, Ron Anderson, of Jackson, Mo., and Tom Rhodes, of Red Oak; along with other relatives and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial took place Wednesday, Jan. 11, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Red Oak. Burial was in Evergreen Cemetery in Red Oak, with Military Rites and Rev. David Smith, S.J., officiating. Rosary took place Tuesday evening with visitation following at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home.

Memorials may be directed to St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.