Rev. Jay Ralph Rhodes

January 7, 1931 - December 21, 2020

Rev. Jay Ralph Rhodes, 89, of Anniston, passed away in the early morning of December 21, 2020. He was born and raised in Blue Mountain, Alabama. He was preceded in death by his wife Sarah, his parents Rev. Jay and Alice, his brother Fletcher and sisters Mozelle, Lillie, Edna and Kathryn. He is survived by his son Jay (Jennifer), brother Grady (Sarah) and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws. He was a longtime member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church in Choccolocco, where he served as Associate Pastor for many years. Ralph graduated from Alexandria High School and Jacksonville State University. He was a proud veteran who served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was a retiree of the Anniston Army Depot. Ralph lived his life to the fullest. He could often be seen driving his “limousine” around town going to his regular dining spots, music performances, church activities and gatherings of friends. He enjoyed gardening and took great pride in the vegetables he grew each year. He never met a stranger, was always a prankster and he loved telling stories of his many adventures. He was a fan of Alabama football and was excited to see them win another SEC title. Ralph’s smile, optimism, big personality and generous spirit will be deeply missed by those closest to him. The family appreciates everyone who has reached out and is especially grateful to the relatives and friends who assisted and kept in touch with Ralph during this most challenging year. Your kindness, compassion and time meant a lot to him, Jay and Jennifer. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, no service will be held at this time; however, family and friends may pay their respects on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church, where Ralph will lie in repose from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Masks and social distancing will be required. Ralph will receive military honors as he is laid to rest privately by his son. A special celebration of his life will be held once large gatherings are deemed safe. In the meantime, treat yourself to a frozen Coke – it was Ralph’s favorite drink and he would be thrilled to know you enjoyed one while thinking of him. And remember his oft-repeated words of wisdom: “Be good. Don’t take any wooden nickels or drink any water out of a dry mud hole and you’ll be in great shape.” In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Oxford Performing Arts Center (OPAC), a place Ralph loved and one that brought him much joy. OPAC Attn: Development Dept. P.O. Box 3383 Oxford, AL 36203 Please write “In memory of Ralph Rhodes” in the memo line on your check. Alternatively, you may contact the OPAC Development Office by phone or online for assistance with making a donation via credit card in Ralph’s honor. To Donate Online: https://www.oxfordpac.org/support-opac/donate