Thomas Hamilton Rhodes

Thomas (Tommy) Hamilton Rhodes, 79, of Ridgeland, South Carolina, passed away at his home on September 9, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and daughters. Born on October 21, 1946, in Ridgeland, he was the son of the late James Roland Rhodes and Edith Phillips Rhodes.

Tommy was a proud graduate of Ridgeland High School, Class of 1964. He continued his education at the University of South Carolina and Wingate University before serving his country honorably in the United States Army from 1968 to 1972. As a Vietnam War veteran, his service reflected the same sense of duty, commitment, and quiet strength that he carried throughout his life.

Tommy dedicated much of his life to serving the town and community he loved. He worked as a State Farm agent for 38 years, served two years as Mayor of the Town of Ridgeland, and served 33 years as a Town Councilman and mayor pro tem. He was also active with many civic organizations, including the Jasper County Historical Society and the Chamber of Commerce. His dedication to the county was recognized when he received the Sergeant Jasper Award in 2023.

A devoted Christian man, Tommy was a lifelong member of Ridgeland Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher. He loved his family deeply and found joy in the simple things that made life meaningful: cheering on Gamecock football, baking pies and cakes, and making those around him laugh. Known for his sharp wit and dry sense of humor, Tommy had a way of bringing laughter, warmth, and personality into every room he entered.

One of his last acts of service was leading the American Red Cross blood drive, a cause he supported faithfully for many years. His commitment to helping others was a reflection of his character and his heart for his community.

Tommy is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Patricia Ann Rhodes; his devoted daughters, Leslie Rhodes Simmons (Donny) and Lindsay Rhodes Smith (Bryant); and his four beloved grandchildren, Peyton Simmons (Jamie), Olivia Sigman (Walker), Campbell Smith, and Grayson Smith. He is also survived by many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly. In addition to his parents, Tommy was preceded in death by his brothers, Jimmy Rhodes and Philip Rhodes.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the American Red Cross or Ridgeland Baptist Church.

A celebration of Tommy’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, September 14, 2026, at Ridgeland Baptist Church, 1448 Grays Highway, Ridgeland, SC. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. prior to the service at the church.