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The World became a little dimmer on July 25, 2026, when Jeri Kay Rhoades Davis, age 77, of Parkersburg, West Virginia, left us. Jeri faced ALS with quiet strength, grace, and unwavering love of her family and friends.
Born March 13, 1949, in Wauseon, Ohio, to Richard "Red" and Ruth Shadel Rhoades of West Unity, Ohio, Jeri grew up with a gentle heart and a deep devotion to those she loved. A graduate of Parkersburg High School's Class of 1967, she remained a proud and active member of her class, serving as an essential part of the reunion committee.
Jeri spent a few years in Bryan, Ohio, working at Arrow Tru Line Inc., before returning home to West Virginia in 1975. She began a long career at St. Joseph's Hospital, later dedicating 21 years to St. Joseph's Ambulance Service. Her coworkers became "Jeri's Kids," a name she used lovingly, reflecting the care and mentorship she offered so naturally.
She loved the sunshine of Myrtle Beach, the excitement of Las Vegas, and the joy of family gatherings. Her greatest happiness came from the time spent with her children and grandchildren. Her lifelong friendship with Carol Powell, cherished since third grade, was one of the constants of her life.
Jeriás dependability, honesty, strength, witty humor, and unconditional loved shaped every relationship she touched.
She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Ralph; her children Lisa Lockhart (Ed), Angela Mitchell, and Rick Davis; her brother Bill (Luwana) Rhoades; her sister in law Linda (Lonnie) Nelson; her brother in law Richard Davis; her grandchildren Trenton and Riss Lockhart, and Hunter, Logan, and Landon Davis; and several nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved dearly.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her paternal grandparents William and Bertha Brooks Rhoades; her maternal grandparents Perley and Sylvis Schankin Shadel; her sister and brother in law Ann and Jerry Masten; her brother Jimmy Rhoades; her in laws Dick and Betty Davis; and her son in law Jack Mitchell, Jr.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Curtis White, Dr. Terri Cook, Dr. Matthew Davis, Camden Clark Medical Center Emergency Medicine, Marietta Memorial Hospital, The Arbors of Marietta, Amedisys Hospice, Jeanne Shears, Caitlin, Katie, and Ellie Hines, and Sandy Flinn for the dedication of care given to Jeri over the years, and especially most recently during her illness. Their compassion and support will never be forgotten.
The funeral services will be Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the Leavitt Funeral Home in Parkersburg with Pastor Steve Peters and Pastor Cecil Chapman officiating; cremation to follow. Visitation will be Monday, July 27 at the funeral home from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Memorial contributions can be made to PHS Class of 1967, Beechwood Presbyterian Church, and One Church of Parkersburg.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.leavittfuneralhome.com.