Brenda Pearl Rhodes

Brenda Pearl Rhodes, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully left this world on October 20, 2025, in Safford, Arizona. Born on June 22, 1948, in Morenci, Arizona, Brenda was a vibrant soul who brought joy and laughter into the lives of all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her former ex-husband, Frank Rhodes, and a host of family members including her parents, Joe and Betty Kelley, her brother Larry Kelley, her sister Shirley Gash, and her granddaughter Jaim'ee Rodriguez and grandson Baby Vic Rodriguez.

Brenda enjoyed a fulfilling career as a Heavy Equipment Operator at Freeport FMI, where she earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues through her hard work and dedication. She learned the value of perseverance from her own education at Pueblo High School in Tucson, Arizona, setting an inspiring example for her daughters and grandchildren.

Family gatherings revolved around the laughter that filled her home — a laughter that echoed like music, bright and wild, capable of uplifting heavy hearts. Brenda loved to watch her daughter Kellie Connell and her daughter Diana Rodriguez, along with her three grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, play sports. She adored instilling humor into their lives, always teaching them funny jokes and songs, ensuring that her legacy of joy would be carried forth.

Her personality was a delightful blend of strength and warmth; she insisted that no one mistake her humor for softness. A true fan of the Dallas Cowboys, Brenda could always be heard cheering, her favorite saying ringing out, “How bout' them Cowboys!” Her fierce spirit and tenacity lit hope in those dark moments, creating a space where everyone felt safe to express their true selves.

Brenda’s pride and joy came from her family. Her heart swelled with love for her children and grandchildren, and she fondly remembered the day she married the love of her life, Frank A. Rhodes, in Tucson in 1968. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Brenda's hobbies included camping and fishing at the lake with her family, where countless memories were made, stories shared, and bonds strengthened.

Brenda is survived by her two daughters Kellie Connell and Diana Rodriguez, along with her sister JoAnn Kelley, 5 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

As we gather to celebrate Brenda’s remarkable life, we invite those who knew and loved her to join us for a memorial service on November 1, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Duncan, Arizona. This will be a time to reflect on the enduring impact she had on our lives, as we carry her spirit forward. Though she may no longer be with us in body, Brenda's voice will continue to fill the room, as heaven hums a sweeter tune with her laughter resonating throughout.

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