Josephine Marie Rhodes' Obituary
Josephine Rhodes Obituary
Josephine Marie Rhodes (nee Copa.), 79, passed away peacefully in her sleep August 30th 2012.Jo was born June 1, 1933 in Lorain, Ohio, later moving to Elyria, where she raised her family and retiring in Oberlin Ohio. Josephine attended Lorain High School, Lorain County Community College, Michigan State University and Oberlin College. Her pleasures in life were based on helping friends and families deal with whatever in life they were faced with and always providing a soft touch and an understanding hand. No one was turned away. This commitment brought her to the role of a Foster Mother at Lorain County Children Services Agency, leading her to become a member and secretary for Lorain County Childrens Agency. Jo also served as chairperson with the Lorain County Child Abuse and Neglect Advisory Board and supported and worked alongside Lorain County Commissioner Mary Jo Vasi.She was a teacher of Native American Studies and member of Oberlin Friends of the Library. Jo was recognized as Elizabeth Coleman Women of the Year along with Women of the Year of First Community Interfaith Institute. She was a member of Universal Church of Prophets and a licensed minister and member of The Fraternity of Life Sufi Tradition. She was a devoted Mother and proud parent of nine children, 19 grandchildren and 12 great grand children, including sons: John Rhodes, James Anthony Rhodes, Christopher Rhodes and wife Linda, Michael Rhodes and wife Winna, daughter, Roseanne Rhodes, son, Joseph Rhodes and wife Kathy, daughter Marie Weimer and husband Denny, Patrick Rhodes and Nancy, brother Tony Copa and son of Amherst, sister Louise Cromwell and family of Sheffield Lake. Josephine was preceded in death by a son Mark Rhodes in 1971 and her Brother Al Copa in 2011. Josephine Rhodes was known as a great friend to all and committed to helping everyone that crossed her path. Always an open heart and strong shoulder to offer. A strong believer in family, lived life stronger than life itself. A beloved mother, best grandmother ever, great sister and treasured aunt. A true friend to all. Her love for everyone will be cherished and remembered forever. She was a true gardener of life. We will miss and cherish your memories. With all our blessing and love - your family.Friends will be received Saturday, September 8, 2012 from 2p.m. until the time of a 4:00p.m. memorial service at Dicken Funeral Home, 323 Middle Avenue, Elyria, OH 44035.For online condolences, visit www.dickenfuneralhome.com
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