Erica Ashlee Rhodes, 32 of Lignum passed peacefully Tuesday May 11, 2010 at her home. She was born in Beckley, WV on September 6, 1977. She is survived by her husband Dale Rhodes of Lignum, two step-sons, Dale Rhodes, Jr. and Andrew Rhodes. She is also survived by her father, Doug Perkins and his wife Gail of Fredericksburg, her mother Donna Jones Cherry and her husband Doug of Spotsylvania; sister Jessica Ciancaglini and her husband David of Geneva, NY; two step-sisters, Ava Freeman and her husband Scott of Fredericksburg and Christal Cherry of Spotsylvania; one step-brother, Robby Cherry and his wife Vanessa of Fredericksburg; her grandfather Ronald Jones of Mineral, VA. Erica is preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Retha Jones and her paternal grandparents, Leonard and Dorothy Perkins.
Erica graduated from Courtland High School in 1995 and attended classes at Germanna Community College. She was a member of the Belmont Baptist Church in Mineral, VA. Her love for the Lord led her to serve as a member of the "On Bended Knee" puppet ministry. She was a dental assistant instructor and dental assistant in several surrounding counties.
Erica touched the lives of many people. She was a devoted wife, loving daughter, caring sister and friend to everyone. She embraced life and lived each moment to the fullest. Erica's heart went out to all neglected and abused animals, especially her "girls", Maybell and Lucy.
When we were with her, our days were brighter. She made the world a more beautiful place with her green thumb and exuberant spirit. As Erica would say, "Remember: God makes everything beautiful in his time."
Erica's family will be receiving visitors Sunday, May 16, 2010 from 6-8 pm at Laurel Hill Funeral Home. There will be a celebration of her life on Monday, May 17, 2010 at 11:00 am at the Laurel Hill Funeral Chapel with burial immediately following in Laurel Hill Memorial Park. In Erica's memory, contributions can be made to the Orange County Humane Society, P.O. Box 623, Orange, VA 22960 or the Orange County Animal Shelter, 11362 Porter Rd., Orange, VA 22960. On-line condolences can be made at www.laurelhillfuneralhome.com.