Jeannette Rhodes

Jeannette Cogar Rhodes, a woman of insightful wisdom and intentional love, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family in La Quinta, California, at the age of 83.

 Born on October 8, 1941, in Los Angeles, California, Jeannette was the beloved only child of Herbert and Georgia Cogar. Her life was one of service and legacy, shaped by her deep roots and passion for family history.

 Jeannette spent much of her life raising her family in Grants Pass, Oregon, before relocating to Coachella Valley, California. She was a lifelong and dedicated member of the Epsilon Sigma Alpha International organization since 1961, where her leadership and service were exemplary. As ESA Oregon State President from 1999–2000, she embraced the theme “Each Day is a New Beginning,” a reflection of her hopeful, positive, and uplifting spirit. An active member of both ESA and ESAF, Jeannette held multiple positions on both boards, reached the Pallas Athene Fifth Degree, and served as Oregon ESA historian archivist. Her philanthropic efforts with her ESA sisters supported organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Easter Seals, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and generosity.

As the family historian and genealogist, Jeannette uncovered and preserved the rich tapestry of her family’s history. Through her meticulous research, she brought to life the stories of ancestors who journeyed on the Mayflower, signed the Declaration of Independence, and braved the Oregon Trail. Her dedication to genealogy and artful creation of manuscripts gave her family a profound understanding of their roots, filling them with a deep sense of pride and connection as it will continue to guide future generations. Jeannette’s contributions to the Daughters of the American Revolution expanded historical records and ensured her work would live on as a resource for countless others.

 Jeannette was married to the love of her life, Kenneth “Dusty” Rhodes, for 61 wonderful years where they built a family rooted in love, resilience, and cherished memories. Together, they inspired and fostered confidence in countless young women as dedicated Girl Scout leaders through outdoor adventures. In their retirement, they enjoyed fishing weekly on the Rogue River and cherishing quiet moments together in their appreciation for nature. Their legacy of guidance, commitment, and a love for the outdoors will continue to inspire all who knew them.

 She is survived by her daughters, Diann Gilbertson (Gil Gilbertson) and Lisa Finch, and her granddaughters Nicole Trigg (Ralph Trigg), Danielle Strother (Jamie Strother), Taylor Finch Provencher (Xavier Provencher), and Jordan Finch. She is also lovingly remembered by her great-grandchildren: Tristan, Walker, and Olivia Trigg, and Lucy and Mylee Strother. Jeannette was preceded in death by her son, Bryan Rhodes, who passed away in his twenties, and her cherished husband, Dusty.

Jeannette’s life was a testament to the power of love, service, and the stories that connect generations. Her wisdom and compassion left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

A celebration of her life will be held this summer in Southern Oregon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her honor to the ESA Foundation, Daughters of the American Revolution, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Jeannette Cogar Rhodes will forever be remembered as a beacon of strength, wisdom, and love—a matriarch whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.