Rhonda Kaye LeMar-James, 71, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, October 10, 2026 at Chandler Regional Hospital in Chandler, AZ. Rhonda was born on December 28, 1954, the daughter of Marvin Allen and Shirley Ruth (Risetter) LeMar in rural Lee County, Illinois. On May 19, 2000, she married the love of her life, William Forrest James in Long Grove, Iowa.

Rhonda was known for her kindness, generosity and unconditional love. She had a special way of caring for others with empathy, grace and compassion. She was a great gift giver, enjoyed art and had a wonderful sense of humor. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Rhonda is survived by her husband of 26 years, together for 36 years, Bill James of Sunlakes, AZ; her mother, Shirley LeMar of Sunlakes, AZ; two brothers: Kris LeMar and Ken (Janine) LeMar both of Rochelle and several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her father, Marvin and sister, Robin LeMar.

The visitation will be from 5:00 - 7:00 P.M., Saturday, October 17, 2026 at the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, 400 N. 6th St., Rochelle. The funeral service will be held at 12:00 P.M., Sunday, October 18 at the funeral home with Pastor Joy Alsop officiating. Burial will follow at First Lutheran Cemetery in Lee, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Rhonda’s memory to Dignity Health Foundation East Valley with a note in the memo for Women’s Heart Health. Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.