Nancy Hickman Rhodes, loving mother, grandmother

Nancy Hickman Rhodes passed away peacefully Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, at her home in Ocean View, surrounded by family and friends.

Nancy was born April 20, 1963, and grew up in Bethany Beach. She was the youngest of three daughters of Raymond and Sally Hickman.

She attended Lord Baltimore and Indian River High School, and later pursued a bachelor's degree in early childhood education from University of Delaware. Nancy started teaching kindergarten at Frankford Elementary School. She married the love of her life, Tim Rhodes, in 1985 and later welcomed their son, West Rhodes. She left teaching and joined her husband, Tim, in real estate, becoming a realtor and business partner.

Nancy loved many things, including shopping, which led to her opening, with her sisters, La Dolce Vita, a unique gift shop in Millville, where she happily created displays and shopped for merchandise. She loved to travel, including trips to the Poconos and Fort Myers Beach, Fla., and she had an undeniable love for animals.

She is survived by her son, John West Rhodes and wife Kaya; her grandchildren, Wrenley Kate and Benson Timothy; her sisters, Laura Hickman and Jane Tribbitt (Tim); her sister and brothers-in-law Pat Rhodes (Barbara), Diane Levinson (Barry), Peggy Jacobs (Jimmy), Denise Bonner (Lee); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends. She also leaves behind her dear friend, Tim Andryszak; and her beloved boxers, Dexter and Zoey. Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, John Timothy Rhodes; and her parents, Raymond and Sally Hickman.

Nancy's Celebration of Life will be held with visitation beginning at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 27, at Melson Funeral Home, 38040 Muddy Neck Road, Ocean View, followed by a service at noon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Nancy's name to the Ronnie Williams Foundation, 1 Hawks Nest Lane, Bear, DE 19701, and Brandywine Valley SPCA, 22918 DuPont Blvd., Georgetown, DE 19947.

Online condolences can be made by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.