Jason Eugene Rhodes, 47, of Merriam, KS, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of Tuesday, May 13th, following a motorcycle accident.
Jason was born on May 17, 1977, in Girard, KS, and raised in Arma, KS, the son of Bruce and Melesia Rhodes. He graduated from Northeast High School, Class of ‘95. In 1998, he married Stephanie Hines, and though they later separated, they shared two beloved children: JayCie McWhorter (Andrew) of Columbia, MO, and Keaton Rhodes of Addis, LA. He was also a grandfather to Hudson and Emerson McWhorter.
Jason was the oldest of three siblings and leaves behind his sister, Bethanie Boley (Dan) of Arma and brother, Donald Rhodes (Kylie) of Bentonville, AR. He was an uncle to Lexi, Seth, Wade, Carleigh, Lanie, Quincy, Grady, Caleb, Bryce, and Ella. Jason is also survived by maternal grandmother, Nina Leslie. Preceded in death by maternal grandfather, Thomas Leslie and paternal grandparents, Vern and Opal Rhodes.
Aside from family and work, one of his greatest joys was fishing—a peaceful escape that brought him happiness.
Known for his adventurous spirit, Jason lived life in the fast lane and often preferred learning things the hard way. He faced struggles with addiction throughout his adult life but showed remarkable strength in overcoming them. In recent years, he found pride and purpose in his role as Maintenance Supervisor at Second + Delaware Apartments, where he was supported by a tight-knit work family he deeply valued.
Jason’s life was a testament to resilience, growth, and love. He will be remembered for his big heart, fun personality, always with the jokes, and the kind of stories only someone like Jason could leave behind.
Jason has been cremated according to his wishes. Memorial services will be at 2:00 P.M., Monday, May 19, 2025 at the Bedene Funeral Home in Arma, Kansas. Scott Saia will give the Eulogy. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 P.M., Monday prior to the memorial service. The family suggests memorials to the Benilde Hall Recovery Center at 3220 E. 23rd St., Kansas City, Missouri 64127. Donations may be sent to Benilde Hall Recovery Center in memory of Jason or left at the Bedene Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington, Box 621, Arma, Kansas 66712.
