Emily Vickery Rhodes

Emily Vickery Rhodes of Roebuck, SC passed away Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at the age of 93. She was born in Spartanburg, SC on October 14, 1932 to the late Robert Beauford and Kathleen Floyd Vickery.

A graduate of Roebuck High School (Class of 1951), Emily married her best friend, John Paul Rhodes, in 1958. Together, they built a remarkable life, traveling the world throughout John’s military career and in the years that followed. In 1972, they returned to Spartanburg, where they made their home and continued to build a life centered on family, faith, and friendship.

Emily was a loving and generous homemaker who found joy in caring for others. She was gifted with her hands and loved to sew and cook, always finding ways to make those around her feel cared for. Her home was a welcoming place, and Emily delighted in hosting family and friends. Social, gracious, and warmhearted, she had a way of making everyone feel like they belonged.

Her faith was the quiet foundation of her life. Emily was a lifelong member of Mount Calvary Presbyterian Church. She never sought recognition, but her gentle spirit and generosity touched many lives. Emily leaves behind a legacy of love that will live on in all who knew her.

Emily is survived by her beloved husband and travel companion, John Paul Rhodes; sons, John Russell Rhodes and Jeffrey Vickery Rhodes (Allison); grandchildren, Lindsay Stevens (J.T.), Dallas Martin (Samantha), Alyssa Rhodes (fiancé, Sid), Kiley Rhodes, and Da’Miyah Wiggins; and great-grandchildren, Sawyer, Yates, and Merritt Stevens. Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Bobby Vickery, and sister, Shirley Rainey.

Visitation will be 5:00-6:15pm on Thursday, August 20, 2026 in Mount Calvary Presbyterian Church. A funeral service will follow at 6:30pm. Private family entombment will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026.

In memory of Emily, contributions may be made to Mount Calvary Presbyterian Church, 1399 Walnut Grove Road, Roebuck, SC 29376.