Wilson Jack Rhodes Jr., a devoted father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Aug. 8. Born on March 20, 1935, in Salisbury, Jack was a son of the late Wilson Jack Rhodes, Sr. and Kathryn Dickerson Rhodes. He was a cherished member of his community and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jack grew up working on the family farm before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force from 1954 to 1957. After his military service, he dedicated 39 years of his life to driving a bus for Trailways, a job he loved, and earned membership in the Million Mile Club. His passion for the open road continued well into retirement, as he worked for Pritchett Tour Bus Co., Savage Bus, and Holloway Tours, finally retiring for good in 2012. The love for travel persisted, leading him to take spontaneous road trips to Lancaster and other destinations, often accompanied by his dear friend, Kay Taylor.

Jack was a passionate NASCAR fan and enjoyed annual trips to the Daytona Speedway with his sons, Mark and Brent, starting in 1989 and continuing for many years. He was also an avid sports fan, especially devoted to dirt track racing, the Orioles and Phillies, and a staunch supporter of the Little League World Series. Classical music was also a passion of Jack’s, and he enjoyed listening to the hundreds of cd’s he had in his collection.

Above all, Jack will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family and community, as well as his fondness for donuts-any kind, any time.

 Jack is survived by his loving sons, Mark Rhodes and wife, Lari and Brent Rhodes and wife, Amy; step-grandson, Evan Giordano and his fiancée, Samantha; sister, Carrie Mae Whaley; sisters-in-law, Catherine Rhodes, Shirley Rhodes and Beverly Rhodes; and his special friend, Kay Taylor. He is also survived by nieces and nephews. A special thank you to his caregivers who assisted in his daily care. His legacy of love and laughter will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

 In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Dickerson Rhodes; brothers, Frank Rhodes, Robert Rhodes, Marshall Rhodes and Ronnie Rhodes; a sister-in-law, Martha Rhodes; and a brother-in-law, Burt Whaley.

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, Aug. 21 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Short Funeral Home in Delmar, followed by funeral services which begin at 11. Pastor Paul James, a close family friend, will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Delmar Little League in Jack’s memory, honoring his love and support of the game.