Larry Joseph Rhodes

CANDLER – Larry Joseph Rhodes, age 75, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2025. Larry was born on December 5, 1949, in Buncombe County where he lived for most of his life. He was the son of the late Luther J. and Mallie Cole Rhodes.

Larry was a poet and storyteller who played the guitar. He toured a bit in South Carolina, played around Nashville, and performed frequently at many of Asheville’s local haunts in the 70s, 80s, and 90s. His words tell us that his journey on earth was one marked by truth, humor, and faith. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many whose lives were touched by his gift. We ask that you remember him with a smile for the stories he sang to us. It was a great pleasure hearing his words, and knowing him.

Larry was a Vietnam veteran of the US Air Force serving from 1971-1974 and received an honorable discharge.

Surviving are his sister, Betty Pope (Gerald); niece, Lisa Ybarra (William Kropp); nephew, John Hunter; longtime friend, Michael Wood; beloved dog, Jake; and many cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, August 8, 2025, at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery with military honors and Rev. Buddy Corbin officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ABCCM at www.abccm.org.

West Family Funeral Services is honored to be serving the Rhodes’ family. Condolences may be offered to the family under his obituary at http://www.westfamilyfuneralservices.com/