Max Rhinehart

Max Anthony "Tony" Rhinehart, age 63, of Dutch Cove Road, a devout Christian, who gave so much to so many, passed away peacefully at home on October 28, 2008, after a long battle with Crohn's disease. A native and lifelong resident of Haywood County, he was the son of the late Robert Lee Suel and Nellie Wilson Rhinehart. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Martha Sue Rhinehart and two brothers, Earl and Bill Rhinehart. He was an employee of Evergreen Packaging with 32 years of service and a member of Crestview Baptist Church. Tony gave every ounce of encouragement, support, and joy he had to all who interacted with him over his full life. He was a light that burned brightly in the community and was deeply loved and respected by those who knew him. Tony had a heart for missions and service. He participated on numerous mission trips, constructing new buildings and facilities in areas hard hit by poverty or natural disaster. Much beloved by all who knew him, he was known for his humor and compassion. Always with a smile, and speaking to everyone as he went, he shared the love of Jesus with his life and personal ministry. He was involved in the local needs of the community and was a mentor to many, an encourager to all. He was quick to forgive and had a heart full of patience, humor, humility, and love. His life was never about himself, but always about the saving grace of Jesus. He was a generous husband, father, and grandfather who was exceedingly thankful his children and grandchildren loved the Lord. Even to the end, Tony continued to teach, encourage and mentor. He is survived by his wife of 16 years, Karen Watson Rhinehart; a son, Brian Rhinehart and his wife, Amy, of Candler; two daughters, Amy Rhinehart of Harrodsburg, KY and Carol Rhinehart and her fiancé, Louis Alexander, of Richmond, VA; four stepsons, David Mills and his wife, Susie, of Canton, Darryl Mills and his wife, Autumn, of Clyde, Dewayne Mills and his wife, Marvitta, of Cashiers, and Kelly Mills and his wife, Christy, of Hendersonville; two sisters, Irene Livingstone of Miami, FL and Dottie Dockery of Columbia, SC; two brothers, Ray Rhinehart of Clyde and Russell Rhinehart of Candler; two grandchildren; Alex and Kristen; ten step-grandchildren, Thersa, Sarah, Morgan, Haley, Nate, Colby, Kerstin, Ashley, Logan, and Dalton; one step great-granddaughter, Alexis; and a nephew, Keith Shepphard and his wife, Jane, of Charlotte. A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 2, 2008 at Crestview Baptist Church with the Reverend Larry Sprinkle, Reverend Dean Clontz, and Reverend Bruce Cayton officiating. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Senior Adult Men's Sunday School Class. Memorials may be made to Crestview Baptist Church Youth Department, 3258 Pisgah Drive, Canton, NC 28716

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