Memorial services will be held 10:00  a.m., Friday, April 4, 2025, at Living Outreach Church, 25189 US-385, Custer, SD 57730.

Wilma Jean Rhoades, 90, of Custer, SD, passed away December 7, 2024.  Wilma was born in Canyon City, SD, August 2, 1934, to William and Violet Cutler.

Wilma graduated from Lead High School in 1952.  After graduation, she moved to Eugene, OR, to attend Bible School.  It was after Bible College that she had the calling to move to Las Cruces, NM, to do missionary work.  Wilma worked 30-plus years in the motel industry, starting at Calamity Peak, Custer Motel, and ending with Travelodge.

Wilma met her husband, James, of 51 years, at the 7-11 Ranch near Buffalo Gap, SD.  Their union brought very wonderful, lasting memories. James and Wilma were married February 26, 1963, at the church in Buffalo Gap.

For many years Wilma was involved in World Woman Fellowship.  She also helped with the Operation Christmas Child/Shoebox outreach of Samaritans Purse.

Wilma loved the Lord and would go to church every chance she got.  Bible studies were very important in her life.

Wilma is preceded in death by her husband, James Rhoades, brothers, Leroy; Leland; Forrest; Neil; Marion Cutler; brother in law, Ted Zechin; uncles, Earl Cooper; Floyd Cooper, niece, Charmain Zechin; cousins, Patty Cooper; James Cooper and beloved grandson, Tyler Rowlette.

Wilma is survived by her daughter, Lavonna (Steve) Maines; granddaughters, Saphire Maines; Novvah Maines; grandsons, Chris Rowlette; Jesse Rowlette; Nicholas Rowlette; great grandkids, Iridessa Romero; Devon Rowlette; Nikkole Salwyn; sisters in law, Jean Cutler; Clara Zechin; nephews, Theron (Meredith) Cutler; Lance (Susie) Cutler; Lyle (Angie) Cutler; Mike Zechin; niece, Lisa (Andy) Jackson; cousin, Richard Cooper and several great nieces and nephews.

Wilma also made many friends throughout the years that she cherished until the time of her passing.

The family would like to thank the entire staff at Avantara St. Cloud where Wilma lived the past several years.  I was told by many that Wilma always had a smile on her face and a loving heart and that she would be missed.

A special thank you to Jan Russell for the visit she had with my mom, Pastor Joel for all the prayers and to Jennifer Jones who stayed with Wilma until she passed.  Thank you for Stillwater staff for the extra care that they gave Wilma in her final day.

Thank you all very much for everything you have done.  I appreciate it more than you know.