James "Dusty" Rhoades

James "Dusty" Rhoades, 84, of North Little Rock passed away December 17, 2025.

After a well lived life, Dusty is survived by his soulmate of 47 years, Karen Baxter-Rhoades; three children: Tonya Ick (Kurt); Aaron Rhoades and James L. Rhoades; three grandchildren: Isabelle, Isaac and Samuel Ick; sisters: Lola Olsmith and Carol Priester; and several extended family members and friends.

Let me tell you about Dusty Rhoades. Some of you may know him as JC, Granddad, or James; But Tonya, James and Aaron knew him best as Dad.

Dad grew up in Bee Branch Arkansas with our Aunt Carol and Aunt Lola. Raised by Grandma Lucy (who was an absolute saint and the kindest, sweetest person in the world). She signed his early enlistment allowing him to join the Navy at 17 where he was a radar man aboard the USS Ponchatoula. This started his lifelong love affair for tinkering with gadgets and technology. While in the Navy, he witnessed two nuclear bomb tests as part of Operation Dominic, making him an official Atomic Veteran, which he got a kick out of. A big shout out of gratitude to Ethan and Isabelle for discovering and helping dad with that journey.

We knew him as somebody that never stopped believing in us, raised us right, and worked hard to give us a wonderful childhood. Whether it was space camp, travel, taekwondo classes, soccer or even skateboarding, Dad never stopped encouraging us to better ourselves and to work hard building the skills that would carry us into adulthood. He also passed on a wonderful sense of humor. That dude was funny! He passed on the values of love, kindness, respect and most importantly… getting a good deal and saving some money.

Dad took an active role in not only his children's life, but his grandkids as well. Showing up for their tonsillectomy, soccer games, high school and college graduations. He was their biggest cheerleader, always encouraging them to aim high. Everyone enjoyed spending time with Granddad.

Although his frugality was legendary, he treated everyone (no matter their station in life) with kindness and respect.

Dusty's second love was flying. With my Mom's encouragement, he got his pilot's license at age 50. Whether flying a float plane in Seattle, hitching rides on the Dillard’s jet, or going with the "old duffers" for a "$100 hamburger," he not only enjoyed flying but met some wonderful friends along the way. Shout out to Breck and all the Old Duffers.

At the end of the day, the number one thing in his life was Mom. Mom was the love of his life, his partner in crime and his biggest fan. His love and devotion to my mother was evident to anyone who spent more than five minutes with them, showing to the world what a loving, fun and happy marriage looks like.

The cat with nine lives, he managed his multiple medical conditions with dignity, grace and humor. Dad had the last say, leaving this life on his own terms in his favorite place: his easy chair next to his favorite person: my Mom.

Dad will be missed by everyone that knew him and we welcome anyone whose lives have been touched by Dusty Rhoades to share their stories, pay their respects and drink a cold craft beer at his memorial.

A memorial visitation is scheduled from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, Monday, December 22, 2025 at Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock, Arkansas

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice, or Jericho Way, Little Rock.

Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock, AR 72114. 501-758-1170.