Jimmie Dale Rhodes – Zeigler, IL

Jimmie Dale Rhodes, 91, of Zeigler, passed away at 10:50 a.m., Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his wife and daughters.

Dale was born on October 21, 1931, in Alto Pass to Ray and Geneva (Bridgeman) Rhodes. He was united in marriage to Alice Joan Bagwell on February 12, 1955, at the First Baptist Church in Zeigler. Together they’ve shared 68 years of marriage.

Dale was a 1949 graduate of Wolf Lake High School, where he was valedictorian of his graduating class. He later continued his education at Southern Illinois University- Carbondale. Dale served his country honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War Conflict.

Dale was retired having been the former Executive Vice President of Boatman’s Bank of Zeigler for 23 years. He had previously worked at the Illinois Central Railroad for 17 years as a telegraph operator and depot agent. He also owned and operated a Western Star semi-tractor trailer and delivered goods across the country.

Dale became a Christian and was baptized at 12 years old. He was a member of the Zeigler First Baptist Church where he served as trustee, deacon, and Sunday school teacher for many years. Dale enjoyed volunteering at the Lifeway Christian Conference Center in Ridgecrest, North Carolina for 18 years.

Dale enjoyed mowing grass and kept his yard immaculate. He oversaw the Zeigler First Baptist Church food pantry. Dale was also given the honorary title of Zeigler-Royalton’s #1 sports fan. He enjoyed supporting the ZR’s schools and going to all their games. Dale was also a huge Chicago Cubs fan and loved watching every game on TV.

He is survived by his wife, Joan Rhodes of Zeigler; two daughters, Lesa Ann (Stephen) Joiner of Hickory, NC, and Rhoda Dale (Phillip) Champley of Taylorville, IL; three grandchildren, Erin Kathleen Joiner of Atlanta, GA, Kelsi Dale Champley of Boston, MA, and Kord Phillip (Madisyn) Champley of Assumption, IL; great-grandson, Cainen Rhodes Champley; sister, Sherry Rendleman of Wolf Lake, IL. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Lane (Belinda Lu) Rhodes; sister, Beverly Rhodes; brother-in-law, Gary Rendleman.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Zeigler First Baptist Church with Pastor Larry Shacklee officiating.
Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 20, 2023, at the church.
Memorial contributions are preferred to be made to Zeigler First Baptist Church. Envelopes will be available at the church the day of the service.

Vantrease-Pyle Funeral Home of Zeigler is entrusted with the arrangements.