Grover Clevland "Dusty" Rhodes

With great sorrow and bittersweet gratitude, the Rhodes, Pierson, Curley and Betancourt families announce the passing of our kind, brave, caring and unimaginably generous husband, brother, father, grandfather and friend, Grover Clevland "Dusty" Rhodes. He passed away on April 9th, 2023 in Scottsdale, Arizona. He was only 83 years old. His family is deeply saddened by his sudden death. Dusty was born on March 3, 1940.
Dusty is survived by his wife Mavis Jean Robinson Rhodes; his son Brandon Dewitt Rhodes; his daughter Tiffany Simone Rhodes Pierson; grandchildren Danasha Adams, Taylor James Rhodes, Elan Pierson and Sydnee Pierson; his daughter in-law Michelle Curley; his son in-law William J. Pierson. Forever remembered by his siblings Jimmy Rhodes and his wife Cleothra Rhodes, Rex Rhodes, Ernest Rhodes and Rosetta McLemore. He is also loved and remembered by other assorted family and many caring friends.
Sebron and Nora Rhodes, Dusty's parents, as well as his 5 brothers and 2 sisters, all predeceased him.
Dusty was born at home in Headland, Alabama. He grew up in Headland and attended North Side High School. He joined Freewill Babtist Church in Headland, Alabama at an early age. He then went on into joining the United States Air Force in 1960 as a Jet Engine Mechanic and was honorably discharged after 26 years of service from Luke Air Force Base, Arizona.
Dusty was a fun spirited soul who took on many passions. One of which included him playing golf, going to breakfast with his military friends every other Saturday, and going to the pub to meet up with his friends. One of his favorite places to visit was Europe, Trinidad and anywhere the cruise ship took him. He spoke of his many travels during his time in the Air Force and the many places he and his wife visited during their vacations. And each story that he told, he would name off the many strangers that he had become friends with. He would tell their whole life story as if they had known each other their whole lives. He had a soul that people were drawn to. He found comfort and peace spending his time with his grandchildren. Dusty committed himself to protecting and caring for his children and grandchildren. He spent many years prioritizing their needs well above his own. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who created a nickname for everyone. He looked forward to visits from his grandkids and friends. He had an amazing memory and told entertaining stories. He related tales from all stages of his life.
He was a beautiful person inside and out. His smile was so stunning it would lighten up a whole room. He cared so deeply for the people around him. He was very witty and fun. He was strong-willed and stubborn, but at the same time he was very kind and incredibly loving. These traits defined him. They made him who he was. He made an impact on so many lives. He will be forever missed. Until we meet again.