Carol Rhodes

Carol P. Rhodes, 55, of Delta left to go to life's big after party Saturday, March 7, 2015, in Cape Girardeau.

She was born Oct. 15, 1959, in Houston, Texas, to the late Jack Piirainen Sr. and Molly Marie Brownlee.

Carol was known for her "tell-it-like-it is" wisdom, her twisted sense of humor, sarcastic and witty comebacks and her ability to laugh when others would hang their heads and cry.

She was happiest when with her family. For Carol, no one was just a friend; they were her family. She had an incredible way of removing societal labels from people and weaving them into her life and connecting everyone together. Carol proved that no matter what your story, she had a place for you in her heart and life.

Carol is survived by her children, Will "Bumper" Rhodes (Julie), Dwana "Babygirl" Lyerla (James) and Katie "Bug" Parkhurst; a stepdaughter, Stephanie Treat; two brothers, Jack Piirainen Jr. (Liz) and Bobby J. Piirainen (Valerie); 12 nieces and nephews; four grandchildren; two grandpuppies; a stepgrandpuppy; two stepgranddaughters; ex-husband and friend, Willard "Pewee" Rhodes; and an extended and honorary family that is so big not everyone can be listed.

She was preceded in death by her soul mate, Greg Parkhurst; mother, Molly Marie "Momo" Brownlee; father, Jack Piirainen Sr.; a brother, James "Jimmy" Doolan; a great-aunt, "Momo" Rose Murphy; and longtime friend, Barb Quigley.

Donations to help with costs may be made to Ford and Sons Funeral Home, 1001 N. Mount Auburn Road, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701.

A celebration of life party will be at 1 p.m. March 21 at Lloyd's Tavern in Jackson. There will be food and a 50/50 pool tournament.

Online condolences may be shared at fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.