David Ryan Rhodes

 David Ryan “Davey” Rhodes, child of God, passed peacefully at the Kiser Hospice House in Salisbury on August 27, 2024. Davey, 52, had been in declining health for three years, residing at Trinity Oaks Health and Rehabilitation.  

Davey was born in Rowan County on May 22, 1972 to Gary C. and Eugenia “Scott” Rhodes of Salisbury. He attended East Rowan High School. Although developmentally disabled, he thrived in school and accomplished goals beyond his limitations. In 1987, Davey, a regular participant in local Special Olympics, was chosen to represent North Carolina as a swimmer at the International Special Olympics Games, an amazing experience for him. He later became a Special Olympics Athlete in Action, representing Special Olympics by making presentations to civic organizations. Davey was also a sports fan, supporting  East Rowan teams. In 2020, he was recognized as a “Lifetime Mustang Fan”. 

Davey was employed for 26 years as a part time grocery bagger at Food Lion Store No. 1. He served many loyal customers and made many friends there. 
Davey was a faithful member of St. John’s Lutheran Church. He loved the Lord and joyfully served by ringing the church steeple bell before worship service each Sunday. 
Davey’s life was an inspiration to all who knew him. His loving, trusting, and joyful spirit and willingness to try his best to succeed at everything he set out to accomplish endeared him to everyone. 

Davey is survived by his parents and older brother Todd Rhodes of Greensboro, N.C.. He was preceded in death by grandparents Tommy and Shirley Rhodes and Eugene and Eloise Putnam of Lexington, N.C.

A Memorial Service in celebration of Davey’s life will be held on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Salisbury, N.C. Visitation will be held in Ritchie Hall at the church immediately following the service.   

Memorials may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, Salisbury, N.C. or to the Kiser Hospice House, Salisbury, N.C. 
The family is grateful for the kindness and care given Davey at Trinity Oaks, at Novant Rowan Hospital, at the Kiser Hospice House , and by Dr. Chetin Amin. 

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