Helen Rhodes Lanza

October 20, 1936 - August 27, 2018

Helen Rhodes Lanza 10/20/1936-8/27/2018 Helen Rhodes Lanza, age 81 of Clearwater, Florida passed away on Monday, August 27, 2018. She was born in Titusville, FL to the late Carl Thomas Rhodes, Sr. and Stella Mae English Rhodes on October 20, 1936. Survived by her brothers & sisters: Myrna Lea Oglesby, Dorothy Lenora Johnson, Edward Elmer Rhodes, Jackie Eugene Rhodes, and Barbara Ann Jumper. Preceded by her brother Carl Thomas Rhodes Jr. Helen worked as a secretary at a Petroleum gas station in North Carolina while raising her children. She lived a simple life in Clearwater, Florida for the past 7 years in an independent living facility where she met many friends whom she enjoyed socializing and playing Bingo with. Prior to this she lived in Columbus County and also Brunswick County where she was surrounded by family and friends who loved her. Helen was a Christian woman who loved the Lord but was not able to attend church in many years because of her health. She supported so many people whom she knew were in need of food or money. Despite her busy lifestyle, family and friends were Helen’s passion and delight. She grew up working as a teenager at a dress store with her sisters to support her family. She had 6 children (3 boys and 3 girls). She lived in Florida and North Carolina while raising her children, Betty, James Jr, Charles, Kenneth, Gloria, and Neva Dawn. Helen’s first child Betty Lou Harper is unaccounted for. She is survived by her other 5 children James R Locklear Jr & his wife Sara from North Carolina, Kenneth Lee Locklear of Tennessee, Gloria Locklear of Clearwater, Neva Dawn Locklear of Virginia numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and a number of other loving relatives and close friends. She was preceded by her son, Charles and wife Janet. Helen requested for a cremation and for her ashes to be scattered in the sea of Mexico which will be done at a later date. The family and close friends will have a “Celebration of Life” in Titusville, FL soon to celebrate Helen’s life. The family wishes to thank all of those who cared for her during her last days. For those who have known Helen in her fruitful journey with us, please join us in expressing your pictures, videos, comments, or poems on www.grassofuneral.com