Earnest Ray Rhodes

Earnest Ray Rhodes lived until November 26, 2010, when he joined his beloved Mom on her birthday. Ray was born August 12, 1921, in Shamrock, Oklahoma, but was proud to have grown up in Wewoka, with his parents James and Bertha, and six brothers and sisters. Ray lived his life in faith, love and dedication. He started his first job at age 4, selling newspapers to help his family. He was a National Merit Scholar. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps in December 1941, and served in battle. He married Nyla Clanton in 1946; earned a degree in engineering; raised four children; and retired after thirty-two years with the same company. He continually pursued education, attending six colleges and universities in various cities, from his teens to his fifties, when he attained his Juris Doctorate. He was a church deacon and Sunday School teacher; little league coach; community volunteer; and good friend to his Army buddies and many others. Above all else, Ray loved and provided for his family. He is survived by his wife, Nyla Rhodes of Oklahoma City; his sister, Frankie Jean Smith of Texas; his daughter, Sherry Steinerd and husband Bob of Oklahoma City; son, David Rhodes of Orange, CA; son, Tim Rhodes and wife Sherry of Oklahoma City; son Joel Rhodes of St. Louis; grandchildren, Scott Slater, Stacy Kisla, Holly Rhodes, Benjamin and Ryan Rhodes; and great grandson, Cole Kisla.