Charles Emory Rhoades, Sr.

Charles Emory Rhoades, Sr., 79, of Port Deposit, MD, passed away, unexpectantly, on December 29, 2025, in North East, Maryland. Born on January 13, 1946, in Wilmington, Delaware, Charles was the first of seven children born to Francis and Grace Emory Rhoades.

He married Diana Lynn Presnell in 1965 and together had three children. They had 55 years of matrimony until her passing in 2021. He was a dedicated chemical operator for nearly four decades, retiring in 2008 from Millenium Chemical, Baltimore, MD

Known affectionately as Charlie, he was a genuine people person who never met a stranger. His retirement years were filled with activities he loved, from yard work to socializing with friends and former co-workers. He found joy in riding his Harley Davidson until just a few years ago. He enjoyed family gatherings and group dinners. Being a prankster and laughing, especially with his siblings, made him happy as the oldest brother. Charlie was an avid participant in yard sales across the county and found joy as a competitive Captain/member of the Shuffleboard team at the American Legion Post 135 where he was also a member of the Sons of the American Legion.

Charlie is survived by his daughters, Connie L. Kelson (RayLee) and Charlene M. Notarcola (Mark); son, Charles E. Rhoades, Jr. (Trudy); sister, Louise Evelyn Hansen (Jim); brothers, Kenneth M. Rhoades, Sr. (Laurie) and Danny L. Rhoades (Joan); sister-in-law, Dorothy Rhoades; eight grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his companion of four years, Rochelle Comer, and a host of friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Diana Lynn Rhoades; parents, Francis Rhoades, Sr. and Grace V. Emory Rhoades; brothers, Francis Rhoades, Jr. and David R. Rhoades, Sr.; and sister, Mary Kay Atwell.

The services are being provided by the Lee A. Patterson & Son Funeral Home, P.A., of Perryville, Maryland. Visitation will be Thursday, January 8, 2026, 6 pm until 8 pm, and the funeral service will be held Friday, January 9, 2026, 11 am, at the funeral home. Pastor Michael Caldwell will officiate. Interment will be in the West Nottingham Cemetery, Colora, MD.