Peggy Rhodes, lovingly known to family and friends as a woman of grace, strength, and unwavering devotion, passed peacefully on May 9,2026 surrounded by her two sons.
Born on July 3, 1934, in Holladay, Tennessee, Peggy was the daughter of Bob Pratt and Mary Olive Gibson Pratt. She grew up surrounded by the love of her siblings and cherished those family bonds throughout her life. She is survived by her brother, Dayton Pratt, and was preceded in death by her siblings Harry Pratt, Austin Pratt, and Nettie Fay Taylor.
Peggy shared a beautiful and enduring love story with her late husband, Vaughan Rhodes. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, hard work, and deep commitment, celebrating 61 wonderful years of marriage. Their partnership was both personal and professional, as they worked side by side throughout their lives. Early in their marriage Peggy and Vaughan opened and operated the first Dollar General store in Lexington, Tennessee, serving their community from 1960 through the early 1970s. They later went on to establish Rhodes Interiors, a successful family business that reflected Peggy’s talents and love for beautiful things.
She was a proud and loving mother to her two sons, Randy Rhodes of Memphis, Tennessee, and David Rhodes of Lexington, Tennessee. Her sons were her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into raising them with love, wisdom, and care.
Peggy was also blessed by the love of her extended family, including her in-laws Don
Rhodes and his wife, JoAnn; Freda Roberts; Jane Gregory; and her late in-laws, Raymelle Austin, Vernelle Johnson, Mary Sue Montgomery, and baby sister Shirley June, all of whom held a special place in her heart.
A visitation and funeral service celebrating Peggy’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Second Baptist Church, where she and her husband, Vaughan, were lifelong members. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 12:30 p.m. Peggy will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Vaughan, at Lexington Cemetery.
Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Frances Halbrook Hensley Animal Shelter or to an animal shelter of your choice.
