Tamara Hicks Rhodes

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Tamara Hicks Rhodes, who went home to be with the Lord on February 11, 2025, at the age of 83. She was born on March 10, 1941, to the late Uriah Amos Hicks and Mary Agnes Funderburk Hicks and was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend.

A visitation will be held at Gordon Funeral Service and Crematory, 1904 Lancaster Ave. Monroe, NC 28112 on Monday, February 17, 2025, at 2:00 PM, followed by a service to honor her life at 3:00 PM. Burial will follow the service at Lakeland Memorial Park, 1901 Lancaster Ave. Monroe, NC 28112.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Donald Kane Rhodes, who stood by her side with love and care.

Tamara was preceded in death by her brothers Billy Hicks, Norman Hicks, Franklin Hicks, Little Buc Hicks, and Joel Hicks, as well as her sister Josephine Moore. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her daughter, Dondriah (Doolie) Holland, and her husband Bill; her grandsons, Tommy "TJ" Bivens Jr. (Zina) and Craig "Emerson" Bivens (Brittany); her great-grandchildren, Kayleigh Clontz (Jacob), Hannah Stephens (Dylan), Maddox Bivens, and Emorie Bivens; and her great-great-granddaughter, Amelia Clontz. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

Tamara, affectionately known as "Miss Pappy," was the proud owner and operator of Pappy’s Restaurant for over 40 years. Her passion for cooking and caring for others made her establishment more than just a restaurant-it was a gathering place filled with warmth, love, and good food. She cherished her customers and treated everyone like family.

Her love for the Lord, her family, and her friends was unwavering. She lived a life of kindness and generosity, always putting others before herself.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate care, especially Kim Blount, whose kindness brought comfort during Tamara’s final days. Special appreciation is also given to her niece, Monteau McManus, for her compassionate caregiving; her son-in-law, Bill Holland, for his unwavering love and care; and her grandchildren, TJ and Zina Bivens and Emerson and Brittany Bivens, for their dedication in preparing nightly meals and ensuring she was well cared for.

A special thank you to Community Medical and her caring doctor, Brandi Queen, for their dedication, kindness, and compassionate care. Their support brought comfort and peace to Tamara and her family during her journey.

Tamara's presence will be deeply missed, but her love, faith, and generosity will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Gentiva Hospice in her memory.

Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com

Gordon Funeral Service and Crematory is honored to be entrusted to care for the Rhodes Family.