Margaret Pauline Rhodes

Margaret Rhodes, 88, of Turner, Oregon, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2024. She was born on March 29, 1936, in Home Valley, Washington, to Johnathon Segesser and Hilda McChotka. Born and raised in a pioneer homestead without major plumbing, Margaret often reminisced about drawing water from the creek, a testament to her resilient and resourceful nature.

The family moved to Toppenish WA where Margaret graduated from Toppenish High School and worked at the Indian Bureau for the Yakima Reservation.

In 1953, she married Carlen Rhodes, and together they were blessed with four children: Keith, Alan, Philip, and Carolyn. As a dedicated military wife, Margaret and her family traveled extensively, living in Texas, Japan, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Hawaii, and California, before settling in Grants Pass, Oregon, following Carlen's retirement from the United States Army.

Throughout Carlen's deployments during the Korean and Vietnam wars, Margaret's strength and dedication shone brightly as she raised their children. After 43 years of marriage, Margaret and Carlen parted ways, but her journey was far from over. She carved out a fulfilling career as a librarian at Fruitdale Elementary and Hidden Valley High School within Three Rivers School District. Additionally, Margaret contributed her time and talents to the Josephine County Fairgrounds, the County Clerk during elections and volunteered with Meals on Wheels, reflecting her lifelong commitment to service.

A cherished member of the Epsilon Sigma Alpha’s Alpha Iota chapter in Grants Pass, Oregon, for many decades, Margaret's hobbies included flower gardening, sewing, playing bunco, and enjoying trips to the casino. Known for her compassionate nature, she was often referred to as a second mom by many. Margaret was an excellent listener, non-judgmental, and wise, with a heart full of love for children and seniors alike. Her strength and devotion to her family were unwavering.

One of Margaret's cherished memories was her trip to Switzerland, where she visited her father's homeland, explored its sites, and met his family and friends, connecting deeply with her heritage.

Margaret was preceded in death by her son, Keith Rhodes, and her siblings Ted, Jim, Mary, Hilda, and Iris. She is survived by her children, Alan (Vickie) Rhodes, Philip Rhodes, and Carolyn Warren; her grandchildren, Shawnna, Kristy, Carl, Jacob, and Ashlee; her great-grandchildren, Gracie, Sara, Alaric, Violet, Gabriel, Giddeon, Galileia, Eden, and Ryan; and her brother, Bill Segesser.

Margaret Rhodes's legacy of love, strength, and service will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew her.

Although there will not be services, the family is planning a Celebration of Life in Turner, but does not have a date set at this time.

In lieu of Flowers, the family wishes donations to Joys of Living Assistance Dogs, (JLAD) at the go fund me page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/service-dog-training-room-safety-mats