Obituary of Rhonda Karen Wilson

Rhonda Karen (Keys) Wilson was born on February 27, 1954 in Wilmington, Delaware to Hilbert Leslie Keys, Sr and Pearl Z. Thomas. She went to be with our Lord the morning of August 4th at the Christiana Hospital. 

She was also known to many by her African Name as “Nia Ife”, which means Purpose and Love. 

Rhonda was a woman of strong faith and belief in God. Even during her most difficult time near the end, she still proclaimed that her life is in God’s hand and she trusted his plan. She grew up attending Bethel AME Church in Wilmington. Her spiritual journey over the years had her studying Christianity, Islam and the African religion / traditions of Yoruba. She was also a Minister and member of the M’Backe House of Hope.

Rhonda graduated from Howard High School with the Class of 1972. She then attended Delaware Technical and Community College, studying Business Administration. She was employed with DuPont at the Experimental Station and retired after 37 years of service. Rhonda then studied and became a Certified Massage Therapist. She named her business, “Healing Hands by Nia”.

Rhonda was a humble, kind, generous and giving person. She had a big heart and a zest for life. She loved everybody and never judged. She loved music and was also a talented musician. She sang and specialized in keyboards, playing for various churches and local R&B bands throughout her life.  She also enjoyed live concerts especially when Eddie Kendricks (her favorite) was featured. 

Rhonda was preceded in death by her parents Pearl Thomas Keys and Hilbert L. Keys Sr.; her Grandmother who raised her Estella Thompson; siblings: Dolores Carter, Yvonne Burgess, Stephen “Oji” Keys, Vergie “Rahbey” Callahan; ex-Husband: Ronald Wilson and son: Ronnie “Munchie” Hollingsworth.

Rhonda. leaves to cherish her memories her children: Shakir Pettyjohn (Megan), Rhonda Hollingsworth-Rumble, Ronsheen Hollingsworth, Derrick Pulliam;siblings: Betty DiOssi, Wayne Keys (Patricia), Hilbert L. Keys Jr. (Ethel), Deborah Morrison, Carolyn Palmer, Doshia Keys, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends. She also leaves behind a devoted friend and love of her life Ron Jennings.