Rhonda G. Blades

Rhonda G. Blades, 66, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025, surrounded by family and loved ones. She was a devoted wife, mom, Gigi, and friend, whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She was born on November 3, 1958, in Montgomery, WV to Bill Sergent and Doris Valentine. She graduated from Ashtabula High School in 1976 and joined the Army in 1976 where she met the love of her life, Louis J. Blades. Lou and Rhonda were married on September 6, 1980, and celebrated 44 years of love. 

Rhonda had a rare and radiant gift — she could light up any room she entered with her infectious smile and a heart full of love. Whether you were family, a neighbor, or a stranger, she made you feel like you were the most important person in the world. She had an incredible ability to make a friend of everyone she met, leaving behind a trail of cherished memories and lifelong connections.

Rhonda found joy in a bustling kitchen. She loved nothing more than preparing feasts for a full house, filling every plate with warmth and care. Rhonda believed that food was more than sustenance, it was a way to bring people together, to tell stories, to show love. No matter how many seats were filled, there was always room for one more at her table.  

She cherished every moment spent with her beloved grandson, their laughter filled the room as they searched for treasures in her jewelry box, read books, and when sneaking a Twinkie. Their time together was filled with warmth, curiosity, and an unbreakable bond. Her love, kindness, and the joy she found in their adventures will be dearly missed but we can find comfort in knowing their moments together will forever be held close to his heart.

Rhonda is survived by her loving spouse, Louis, and their two sons: Justin (spouse Iryna) and Randall (spouse Amanda). She was a proud Gigi to Grayson. In addition to family, Rhonda is also survived by close friends who were like family: Raleigh, Amanda, Bayleigh, Hayden, and Penelope Chiarelli. The love and support from these cherished relationships will continue to be a source of strength for all who were fortunate to know her.

Rhonda was preceded in death by her beloved father, Bill Sergent, and brother, Timmy Sergent. 

A celebration of her life will be held during calling hours on Tuesday February 4, 2025 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Raisian Family Funeral Home 581 Harbor Street Conneaut, Ohio 44030, where we will gather to honor the incredible woman she was and the indelible mark she left on this world.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to G.O. Community Development Corporation in Ashtabula, OH at https://www.go-cdc.org/donate/, a cause that was near and dear to Rhonda's heart.

Rest in peace, Rhonda. You will forever be loved and missed by all.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rhonda G. Blades, please visit our floral store.