Lajuanna Rhodes

DANVILLE- On April 2, 2008, Lajuanna (Juan) Diane Rhodes 41, passed away at the University of Chicago Hospital. Lajuanna was born on April 1, 1967 in Indianapolis, IN. The daughter of Wilbur D. Rhodes and Marva J. (Davis) Mays. Both preceded her in death. Lajuanna lived her life in Danville, Ill. She enjoyed golfing, playing tennis, softball and watching football. Juan loved life and was always looking for a chance to serve and help others. Lajuanna loved working with and teaching children of all ages. She worked as a Head Start teacher for many years and was currently a youth advocate at the center for Childrens Services in Danville. Throughout her career, she was able to positively touch many children. Juan was a member of the Womens Golf Association at Harrison Park Golf Course in Danville. She coached little league for many years where she found joy in sharing her love of sports with children. Lajuanna received her associate degree from Saggamont State and her Bachelors in Education from the University of Illinois in Champaign. Lajuanna found great comfort and joy in spending time with family and friends. She is survived by her loving step-dad: Jack D. Mays of Danville, who cared for her throughout her life; her brother Derrick (Ralphette) Rhodes of Chicago, Il, two sisters: Glenna Wilson of Clinton Township, Michigan, and Karla (Ira) Jefferson of Champaign, Il. One aunt: Sharon (John) Hails of Farmington Hills, Michigan, three nephew: Anthony (Edrea) Norwood of Eastpoint, Michigan, Dustin Jefferson of Champaign, IL, and Derrick Rhodes II of Chicago. Two nieces: Tamesha Wilson of Detroit, Michigan, and Dana Rhodes of Chicago. Three great nephews: Jacere, Amire, and Sylar, two great nieces: Breanna and Serenity, and a very special friend and roommate, Holly Harrier of Danville, as well as Juans very special dog, Oakley. Juans greatest love in life was taking care of people. Whether she was planning a get together with friends and family, playing golf, cooking, or providing for others, her joy was in giving. Juan found joy in taking pictures of those that she loved, caring for family, friends, and her dog Oakley. She was especially devoted to taking care of her parents and spending time with her nieces and nephews. Juan had a special way of finding just the right gift to brighten the day of those she cared about. When describing Lajuanna, the word most frequently used was giving. All those that had the privilege to meet Lajuanna loved her.