Thomas Jason Rhoades (TJ)

Born on the Suncoast of Florida in the winter of 1970, on February 2, the world welcomed a new and vibrant life at Sarasota Memorial Hospital in the heart of his hometown. His proud adoptive parents, Tom and Mary Anne Rhoades soon gave him his meaningful name and the Rhoades family was blessed with another member to call their own. His infectious laugh, sweet, deep-set dimples, and drive to accelerate in all things, his childhood was filled with family, faith, and friends, living life to the fullest. His accomplishments continued as he excelled through his youth, making life-long friends along his journey while making sure everyone was always laughing and well-cared for. His wit, charm, and light-hearted spirit blessed all who knew him, and he was well-known for always being the first to lend a helping hand. In September of 1988, following in his father and eldest brother’s footsteps, TJ was accepted into the Sarasota County Fire Academy and began his career in public service. His career highlights include serving as a Firefighter, followed by a promotion to Paramedic in June of 1992. In 2009, he received his promotion to Lieutenant at Sarasota County’s Fire Station 10. During his time in public service, he received many recognitions and awards for his outstanding achievements. Prior to leaving the fire department in 2013, he instructed at the Fire Academy in Sarasota and worked in the ER at Doctors Hospital, saving countless lives in the community. TJ was also known for his love of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Devil Rays, and the Florida Gators. Golfing, fishing, geocaching, trivia, all things Halloween, were also pieces of life that brought him joy. Teaching, and anything that included his children, grandchildren, and family were of the upmost importance, and his family will be eternally grateful for all the good he did with the time God gave him on this earth. Life came with its valleys, but he continued to approach everything with God’s grace and ever-faithful love at the forefront. His two eldest daughters, Chloe and Cherith, were the apple of his eye and his love of fatherhood quickly became apparent. Known as, “the fun dad”, he was also a strong provider, teacher, and later in life, a close friend. His daughter Carolyn came next and was truly daddy’s little girl. He was blessed yet again with his daughter Teagan and was no longer just a girl-dad when he welcomed his last child, Lincoln, his firstborn son. TJ’s life and legacy were that of a loving father, friend, public servant, and follower of Christ, leaning on his faith when walking through difficult seasons. He continuously made a warm and welcoming space for those he loved and never met a stranger. He is proceeded in death by his parents, Thomas (former Sarasota County Fire Dept Chief) and Mary Anne Rhoades, and his dear sister, Debbie Bridwell. He is survived by his eldest brother, Steve Rhoades (former Sarasota County Fire Dept Lieutenant), sister Sandy Dysert, and brother Paul Rhoades. TJ leaves behind his beloved children and grandchildren, Chloe Rhoades (33), spouse Justin Babker, and children Emmett, Easton, and Eli. Cherith Vesely (31), spouse Matthew Vesely, and children Asher and Aurora. Daughters Carolyn Rhoades (21), Teagan Olsen (13), and son Lincoln Rhoades (10). While his family is still grieving over his tragic and untimely passing, he will forever be missed but remain in their hearts and memories until they meet again. TJ’s funeral service honoring his life and legacy will be held on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at Toale Brother’s Funeral Home, 40 N Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236 from 4pm – 6pm. All are welcome to join friends and family at Evie’s Tavern and Grill, 4725 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233 immediately following the service for a time of fellowship. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a GoFundMe for his children to the link below: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-ease-the-burden-for-tjs-family?attribution_id=sl%3A52db3319-e039-4d4a-83ae-90765e94a574&utm_campaign=man_sharesheet_dash&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1A3lyxGTTii8smbyXmruGd2MUAqHs79e_P3fJo5nekjiwWECCcJXGsJXs_aem_6UDd_dv19TO6yZBu08NsFw

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Thomas Jason Rhoades (TJ)

February 2, 1970 - June 17, 2024