Dr. Edward R. Rhodes, Jr., a native of Miami, Florida, is the founder and CEO of The Xenia Foundation. The Foundation is an outgrowth of Edward’s commitment to help children like his daughter Xenia, who suffered with deep depression because of his separation and impending divorce from her mother, gospel powerhouse LaShun Pace.

Edward has been a major player in the  gospel music industry, having worked for Savoy-Malaco, Aleho and Blackberry Records as a producer, manager and songwriter for artists a variety of artists, including Rev. James Moore, The Anointed Pace Sisters and The Georgia Mass Youth for Christ Choir. He has produced more than 25 CDs. In addition, Edward has performed as a background singer with Whitney Houston and Harry Connick, Jr.  

In 1986, he married gospel powerhouse LaShun Pace who rose to stardom rather quickly. They had two beautiful daughters Xenia and Aarion. Several issues put a strain on the marriage, and they separated and were in the process of a very turbulent divorce.  Xenia was the more vulnerable child who needed active hands-on parenting which LaShun was unable to provide due to her hectic travel and performance schedule.  Xenia suffered the most because of the separation and impending divorce.  Due to stress and obesity, she ended up succumbing to a massive heart attack in school in front of her classmates. This was a life- changing event for both families.

Rhodes received his B.S. and MBA in commercial music from Morehouse College and Georgia State University respectively. Upon completion of his music degrees, he enrolled in Antioch Baptist College and Seminary in Cartersville, Georgia, and received a Master’s and Doctorate in Theology with a concentration in Pastoral Counseling.

Dr. Rhodes resides in Atlanta, Georgia. In addition to his commitment to The Xenia Foundation, he is a dedicated father to his surviving daughter, Aarion Mychkiel Rhodes.