In loving memory of Rhonda Lee Thames Hariel who passed away on October 20, 2023, at the age of 72. She was a beacon of kindness, with a heart that knew no bounds. Her unwavering love and compassion touched everyone she encountered. As a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, she exhibited patience, understanding and a selflessness that defined her role as the matriarch of the family. In her role as an educator for 35 years, Rhonda possessed an infectious enthusiasm for learning that inspired her students. Her classroom was not just a space for academics, but also a nurturing environment where curiosity was encouraged. A fervent Christian, Rhonda lived by the principles of faith, embodying virtues of grace, forgiveness, and service to others. Her commitment to spreading God’s word was not only a calling but a reflection of the profound spirituality that guided her every action. Rhonda will be remembered for these qualities and the lasting impact she had on the lives she touched.
Rhonda is preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Floyd Keith Hariel; her parents, George Wood Thames and Leatrice Joy Crosby Thames.
Left to forever cherish her memory are her children, Bliss Hariel, Kirk Hariel, Natalie Hall (Johnny) and Nicole Hariel; her grandchildren that she adored, Easton Thomas, Keira Hariel, Zoey Hariel, Mary Jane Hall; her siblings, Charles Thames (Penny) and Patti Thames; her sisters-in-law, Barbara Strahan (Tolby), Lou Jones (Tim); nieces and nephews, Sollie Graham (Eric), Tyler Thames, Theodore Parson, Jessie Stockstill, Jamie Stockstill and Jarred Stockstill (Faith); first cousins who were like siblings, Sharla Amirault, Ross Lamberson, Janice Johnson, Karen Warren, Marsha Yates, Randy Daniels, Gary Graham, Helen Doyle, Denny Thames, Donna Thames and George Earl Thames.
The family would like to express a special thank you to, KC Allen, Cindy Hatten, Rhonda Ladner and great niece McKenzie Thames.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, October, 22, 2023 at 3:00pm at Oak Hill Baptist Church in Poplarville, Mississippi. Friends are invited to join the family for visitation from 2:00pm until the service begins. Burial will immediately follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Oak Hill Baptist Church The Vision 20/20 Building Fund.
