Kenneth Wayne Rhodes, Sr.

Deacon Kenneth Rhodes, Sr. gained his wings on February 7, 2026 at 11:56 p.m. at the Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, Fort Walton Beach, FL.

Kenneth was born in Memphis, TN., January 10, 1952 to Rev. Esic Rhodes, Sr. and Lavern Johnson Rhodes.  He was a devoted man of faith, family, and community whose life reflected his steadfastness for God and service to others.

Kenneth was a member of Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church for over 25 years where he served as Deacon and Choir Director. Kenneth joined Beulah First Baptist January 1, 2018 and was confirmed to the Board of Deacons May 15, 2018. Kenneth loved to sing and blend his voice with anyone that could sing.  He sang with Beulah’s Male Choir and the Beulah’s Adult Choir until his health began to fail.

At the age of 18, Kenneth enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served for 21 years.  After retirement from the military in 1993, Kenneth joined the Fort Walton Beach Police Department, working in Dispatch and later transferring to the Forensic department. In 2008, he retired from the Police Department. His commitment to hard work and excellence was evident throughout his professional life.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary C. Clark; brother, Rev. Esic Rhodes, Jr; and sister, Geraldine Holliday. Kenneth was the youngest of six, three boys and three girls.

Deacon Rhodes leaves to rejoice his home going: his wife of 42 years, Della Primous Rhodes; daughters, Kenisha (Eric) Jones and Ivy Rhodes Slaton; sons, Esic (Charissa) Rhodes, Kenneth, Jr, “DJ” (Karina) Rhodes, and Gordon (Momo) Crosby; and grandchildren: Xavier Rhodes, Raven Roberson, Danielle Roberson, Denise Slaton, Elijah Slaton, Josiah Rhodes, Nyomi Rhodes, Camille Rhodes, Sry Rhodes, Taylor Henderson, Emiyah White, Chris Gray, Esic J. Rhodes, Esic Rhodes, IV, Ryu Crosby, Mia Crosby, Mira Crosby, Mila Crosby, Ressa Crosby, Seena Crosby, Noah Crosby, Marcus Crosby, and Leon Crosby. He also leaves a brother, Dr. Rev. John T. Rhodes; sister, Gladys Ballesteros; great-grandson, Isaiah Delis; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Kenneth’s life was defined by faith, humility, wisdom, and love for his family. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, kind spirit, and joy in helping others. Though his earthly journey has ended, his legacy of service, devotion, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Acknowledgements:

The family of Kenneth Rhodes, Sr. extends our deepest gratitude for the many acts of kindness, comforting words, prayers, calls, visits, and expressions of love during our time of bereavement. The Rhodes family would also like to extend its gratitude to the many medical professionals and Jahee Standley, who dedicated time to take care of our loved one. May God continue to bless each of you for the compassion and care you have shown.