Joyce Rhodes

Joyce Rhodes, a beloved mother, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025, at the age of 95 in Blue Springs, Missouri. She was born to Melvin and Mary (Nissen) Martin on June 10, 1930, in the town of Tunas, Missouri.

Joyce devoted over forty years to the noble profession of teaching, starting her career in a one-room schoolhouse, where she nurtured young minds with love and enthusiasm. Her passion for education led her to teach kindergarten and third grade, imparting knowledge and values to countless children who would carry her lessons into their futures. A proud graduate of Tunas High School, Joyce furthered her education at SMSU in Springfield, where she obtained her bachelor’s degree. Years later while both teaching and raising a family Joyce’s determination led her to continue her education at UMKC. It was there she proudly earned her master’s degree.

Beyond her teaching career, Joyce enriched her life with various hobbies and interests. She was an avid reader, and she loved to travel extensively around the globe gathering experiences and stories that she shared with her friends and family. Her passion for shopping and working in her flower garden brought her joy, as did her contributions to her community. Joyce dedicated her time volunteering at her church and with the Community Services League, demonstrating her commitment to giving back. A proud member of the Red Hat Society, she earned the cherished title of "Queen Mother" of the Red Hat Road Runners in Buckner, Missouri, where she forged many lasting friendships.

Joyce is survived by her children, Robin Kerr, Renee Marshall (Kenny) and Martin Rhodes (Trina); grandchildren, Alex Marshall (Avi), Grant Kerr (Lyndsay), Regan Grandorf (Christian), Nicholas Rhodes, Nathan Rhodes (Kayla) and Noah Rhodes; great-grandchildren, Jaxxon Rhodes, Carson Kerr and Elinor Marshall.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Rhodes; parents, Melvin and Mary Martin; sister, Lois Morton and grandson, Andrew Marshall.

While Joyce’s proudest accomplishments were undoubtedly her family, her influence extended far beyond her immediate circle. She was a guiding light, a mentor, and a friend to so many. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of the countless lives she has touched.