Ruth Marie Rhodes

Ruth Marie Rhodes, 87, formerly of Jackson, passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Hillcrest Care Center in Desoto, Missouri.

Ruth was born September 30, 1938, in Pevely, Missouri, to Ernest Ludwig and Ruth C. Mangelsdorf Linhorst. She and James “Jim” K. Rhodes were married August 19, 1961, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Imperial, Missouri. They had been married 62 years when Jim passed away September 15, 2023.

Ruth was a 1956 graduate of Hillsboro High School. In 1960, she received a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Southeast Missouri State University, and in 1967, a master’s degree in elementary education from the University of Missouri.

Ruth taught elementary school for 39 years, primarily at Cape Girardeau Public Schools. Throughout her teaching career, Ruth was an active member of the Missouri State Teachers Association, holding offices and serving on committees. She was a faithful member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Jackson, where she had many friendships and remained active in various ministries until her health declined.

Loving survivors include nephews and nieces, Larry (Peggy) Linhorst of Hillsboro, Don (Ann) Linhorst of Glen Carbon, Illinois, Mark (Cathy) Linhorst of Festus, and Susan (Anthony) Clark of St. Louis County, and great-nieces and nephews.

Ruth was preceded in death by her niece, Carol Linhorst, husband, Jim Rhodes, and her parents.

A memorial visitation will be held from 9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, FEBRUARY 21, 2026, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Jackson. The Rev. Joshua Schmidt will conduct a memorial service at 11 a.m., Saturday, February 21, at the church.

Ruth was privately laid to rest with Jim at Cape County Memorial Park Mausoleum in Cape Girardeau.

If considering a memorial contribution, the family suggests St. Paul Lutheran Church in Jackson.

Arrangements by McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson.

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