Rhonda Yvette Meredith-Hodge

Rhonda Yvette was born January 5, 1957, as the first of seven children to the union of Jessie L. Meredith and Alyce R. Meredith in Meridian, Mississippi.

Affectionately known as “Peg” by her family, Rhonda was a loving and kind child, whose gentle spirit remained constant throughout her life. At a very young age, she united with the Haven Chapel Methodist Church, laying the foundation for a lifelong path to faith and service.

Rhonda began her educational journey at East End Elementary, before the family relocated to Maywood, IL. She continued her schooling at Irving Elementary and Proviso East High School. She furthered her education at Triton Community College, where she pursued post-secondary studies for two years.

Rhonda met her beloved husband, Alvin, through her neighbors, the Miller family. They maintained a close friendship for many years before they began dating. They were wed in holy matrimony on July 12, 2023.

Throughout her lifetime Rhonda was connected to many people by which she developed many meaningful and lasting friendships. She was a very giving person and was always willing to help anyone, especially all those who had the pleasure of enjoying her many dishes including but not limited to her famous Cookies, Pound Cake, Sweet Potato Pie, Key Lime Pie, Chocolate and Caramel Cakes.

Rhonda was very adamant about her relationship with God and service to His people. She united with Canaan African Methodist Episcopal Church in Maywood, IL. She was a dedicated leader and served faithfully wearing many hats: Inspirational Choir, YPD, Sunday School Teacher, Sarah Allen Missionary Society, Sunday School Superintendent, North District Sunday School Board, Trustee Board Member, Food Pantry, and a key contributor to the Canaan Cares Community Giveaway, and all things Canaan. In addition, she participated in local community singing groups which included Ambassadors for Christ and the Chicago Area Glenn E. Burleigh’s Born to Die Cantata Chorale.

Rhonda’s occupational history includes serving in many positions with the U.S. government for over 47 years. Her tenure was primarily with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense until she retired in 2021. After retirement, she spent cherished time caring for her parents, enjoying time with her husband and family and sharing her gift of baking with her nieces and nephews. Her compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment to others embodied the true heart of a servant leader.

Rhonda took her last earthly breath, peacefully transitioning from this life the evening of December 8th. Her mother, Alyce Meredith, her brother Ricky LaVoid, and bonus son Jefferey preceded her in death. 

Those who cherish fond memories of Rhonda include: her father, Jessie Meredith, Maywood, IL; her husband, Alvin Hodge (Clinton, MS), her brothers: Jessie LaValle(Joyce), Lombard, IL; Ernest Theoria (Ann), Odessa, FL; Lonnie Wayne (Bridgette), Columbus, OH; Bruce Terence, Berkeley, IL; and Cedric Charles, Atlanta, GA; two sisters in-love, Tonjua Jackson and Vicki Kindred Meredith; four bonus children: Dexter Gaddis (Addison, IL), Andrea Hodge (Clinton, MS), Jason Fleming (Meridian, MS) and Jeremy Fleming (Atlanta, GA). Twenty-two bonus grandchildren: JaTanya, Kyra, Antonio, Angela, Christian, Dexter Jr, Lavon, Taurel, Stacey, Jaiydn, Jasiah (Godson), Jordan, Jayla, Jorja, Nuri, Jeremiah, Jalena, Jeremy, Cameron, Jakhi, Amya, and Bryce. Seven nephews and nieces: Cameron Meredith, Anastasia Berry (Dominique), Brooklyn Meredith, Blaise Meredith, Jared Meredith, Jalen Meredith, and Bryce Meredith. Five great nieces and nephews: Victoria, Xayne, Kamiyah, Dominique, and Josiah; and a host of godchildren and cousins. Additionally, she was a spiritual mother to many through her teachings at church that have transcended generations within the community.