Our History
The Rhoades Family Reunion, Inc. was established in 1973 as a way to bring together descendants and relatives to celebrate family heritage, unity, and shared history.
What began as a simple gathering has grown into a lasting tradition that continues to bring generations together from across the country.
Our Founders
Our legacy is rooted in the lives and values of Tom and Etta Rhoades, whose story and family lineage serve as the foundation of our reunion and continued connection.
Their commitment to family, resilience, and togetherness lives on through each reunion.
purpose
The purpose of the Rhoades Family Reunion is to provide multi-faceted support to the Rhoades Family members and designated organizations to promote family heritage, culture awareness, social action, and generational weatlh.
Vision
To build a connected, informed, and empowered family community that honors its past while creating opportunities for future generations.
Leadership
Executive Board:
- Brian L. Schaffer – President
- Belinda Rhoades Smith – Vice President
- Nicole Rhoades – Secretary
- Noel Schaffer Hakimi – Assistant Secretary
- Jose Rhodes Jr. – Treasurer
- Michael G. Johnson, Jr. – Assistant Treasurer
- Jasmine Rhoades – Youth Leader
- Latosha Boswell – Scholarship President
Meeting Schedule
National Meeting: Every 2ⁿᵈ Saturday in April and October
Presidents Meeting: Every 2ⁿᵈ Saturday in January and July
Decades of Unity and Legacy
1973
1983
1993
2003
2023
The first reunion was at Salem Baptist . It was the wish of Alease Lewis known as Aunt Teedie the youngest child of Tom & Etta Rhoades. In 1974 the family donated a pulpit and chair for the Martin Luther King, Jr chapel at the Old Salem Baptist Church. The pulpit and chair are still in use today at new Salem Baptist Church.
The first scholarship were given in 1983. It was the initiative of Dr. Freeman S. Rhoades.
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Celebrating Fifty Years: Honoring the vision of our founders with a Golden Jubilee that reaffirmed our shared heritage and legacy.
North vs. South Competition
The North vs. South competition started with an annual softball game in the late 1970's and continued into the 2000's. The competition then transitioned to bowling, cornhole, and other competitive activities.