Marylene Pope Rhodes

Marylene Pope Rhodes, age 92, of DeFuniak Springs, Florida passed away Friday, March 5, 2021, at her home surrounded by her loving family.  She was born September 18, 1928, in Elba, Alabama to Luther and Esther Pope.  In April of 1957, she and her husband Clyde opened a jewelry store in DeFuniak, Rhodes Jewelers.  They operated the store, no doubt providing diamond rings for countless numbers of local engaged couples over the years until their health eased them into retirement.  Marylene was an exceptionally talented artist.  Her china paintings and oils were admirable and will be fondly remembered by her family and friends.  She was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church in DeFuniak. Marylene was an active member of the Pilot Club in Walton County for over fifty years.

She is preceded in death by two brothers, Cecil and William Pope and one sister, Louise Flowers.

Marylene is survived by her husband of seventy years, Clyde Rhodes; two sons, Wayne Rhodes and wife Beverly of Pensacola, Florida, and Bruce Rhodes and wife Cynthia of DeFuniak Springs, Florida; three grandchildren, Eric Wilkinson and wife Melody, Brian Rhodes and wife Rachel, and Michelle Rhodes; two step-grandchildren, Rob Orcutt and wife Marianna Pinazo and Angie Orcutt; one step-great-grandchild, Luna Orcutt-Pinazo; numerous nieces and nephews; and many great-nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held Monday, March 8, 2021, beginning at 2:00 p.m. at Magnolia Cemetery with Reverend Jerry Chumley officiating.

The family would like to thank all the wonderful people of the community who were a source of support to them. Whether you brought over a delicious meal, remembered us in prayer, or any kind deed you did for us, we deeply appreciate it.  Also, they would like to thank Regency Hospice for the kind care given to Marylene. In lieu of flowers, the family asked donations be made to your favorite charity or the Gideons organization to be used for purchasing Bibles and spreading the Gospel.

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home of DeFuniak Springs.