Jarrod Rhodes was born on April 25, 2003, to the loving union of Ken Lamar Rhodes and Sharon Mae Rhodes. He represented everything in a loving friend, son, and brother. Grounded in Christian beliefs, he loved family and community. His acts of kindness to the world will always be remembered. In his 22 years, Jarrod Rhodes has lived a fulfilled life.

Jarrod started his preschool education in Christian faith at True Vine Christian Academy. He later attended Whiteside's School District #115, a community of faculty, teachers, and students who shared positive memories with him. It was here that he developed an interest and talent for music. He joined Whiteside's Middle School Band and chose the trombone as his musical instrument. Daily, he practiced the trombone and was always willing to share his talent for music with his family. Observing his commitment, his music teacher awarded Jarrod with a solo trombone performance during his 8th grade year.

Jarrod continued performing in concerts for two more years at Belleville East High School. Afterward, he pursued a new interest. In his junior year, Jarrod joined the Belleville East High School Track and Field Team. His scheduled events included the shot put and discus throw. He relied on his natural strength and coordination in competition. Having the support of loving coaches and teammates, he grew to love the sport and understood the value of teamwork. During the summer of 2018, Jarrod joined the University of Missouri St. Louis (UMSL) Bridge Program Opportunities. The program has provided Jarrod with true college experience and the confidence it takes to succeed in life.

Jarrod graduated from Belleville East High School with the class of 2021. With dreams of succeeding, he continued his education at the Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville. His major was mechanical engineering, where he completed four out of five years of the program. He stayed involved on campus. He was a member of the Student Opportunities for Academic Results (S.O.A.R.) and the National Society of Black Engineers SIUE chapter. In recognition of his accomplishments, SIUE will award Jarrod Rhodes a posthumous Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

Jarrod appreciated simplicity in life. His favorite hobby was weightlifting at Club Fitness, where he developed a community. He also loved to draw various sceneries, characters, and symbols in his favorite sketchbook. He worked part-time at Home Depot, where he met friends and taught customers about painting. Vacations held a special place in his heart, particularly his friend's trip to Austin, Texas, and family trip to Panama City Beach, Florida.

Jarrod Rhodes has transitioned to the next phase of life. His selfless deeds in helping people smile will serve as living memories for us to cherish. He had a heart of gold, something that he will take with him as he ascends. Jarrod is in a beautiful place; He is now home with the Creator.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory: His parents, Ken and Sharon Rhodes of Belleville IL; his older brother, Jalen Rhodes; his grandmother, Pauline Rowe; Dear Aunts, Diane (Daryl) Luster, Shirley Mclean, Darletta Flood; Dear uncles, Leroy Rowe (Mildred), and a host of cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Jarrod was preceded in death by his precious grandmother Ardie Mae Foxworth-Rhodes, his grandfather Terry Louis Brown, his aunt Nicole Renee Thorton, and his uncle Eugene Coleman Rhodes.