Kris Rhodes
Funeral Director In Charge & Preneed Specialist
Kris Rhodes grew up and attended schools in Clear Lake City (Houston) for 12 years before moving to Mexia, TX for her senior year and graduating high school in 1991. She graduated Baylor University in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health, Human Performance, and Recreation with a minor in Gerontology, while also working full time at Regis/St. Elizabeth nursing home.
In 1995 Kris and Scott Rhodes married, and Kris spent over 26 years assisting in Scott's youth ministry. And continues as he transitions into the role of Pastor for Golinda Baptist Church. The couple have two sons, who both attended and graduated from Midway schools. Kris was fortunate enough to be a stay at home mom for 15 years.
As a young adult, after attending a funeral, Kris was drawn to the organizational aspects of the funeral business. Later on, several classes at Baylor sparked her interest in death care. However, it was while assisting her mother in the funeral arrangements for members of her own family that her desire to be an advocate for families in their times of need began to grow.
In 2015 she joined the Grace Gardens family as a funeral assistant and her calling into funeral work blossomed. In 2017 she earned her funeral director’s license from Commonwealth Institute in Houston, and became a full time funeral director, allowing her to live out her greatest passion of serving others. She was named manager and Funeral Director in Charge in 2019.
Kris’s goal is to really hear and connect with families helping them create the meaningful experience they need when a loved one passes. She seeks to be creative and innovative, and strives to offer love and care to all. To Kris, it is her ministry, not her job. Her philosophy is “No ask is too small or too big, there is a reason it was asked, and we need to make it happen.”
Kris Rhodes
Funeral Director In Charge & Preneed Specialist
Kris Rhodes grew up and attended schools in Clear Lake City (Houston) for 12 years before moving to Mexia, TX for her senior year and graduating high school in 1991. She graduated Baylor University in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health, Human Performance, and Recreation with a minor in Gerontology, while also working full time at Regis/St. Elizabeth nursing home.
In 1995 Kris and Scott Rhodes married, and Kris spent over 26 years assisting in Scott's youth ministry. And continues as he transitions into the role of Pastor for Golinda Baptist Church. The couple have two sons, who both attended and graduated from Midway schools. Kris was fortunate enough to be a stay at home mom for 15 years.
As a young adult, after attending a funeral, Kris was drawn to the organizational aspects of the funeral business. Later on, several classes at Baylor sparked her interest in death care. However, it was while assisting her mother in the funeral arrangements for members of her own family that her desire to be an advocate for families in their times of need began to grow.
In 2015 she joined the Grace Gardens family as a funeral assistant and her calling into funeral work blossomed. In 2017 she earned her funeral director’s license from Commonwealth Institute in Houston, and became a full time funeral director, allowing her to live out her greatest passion of serving others. She was named manager and Funeral Director in Charge in 2019.
Kris’s goal is to really hear and connect with families helping them create the meaningful experience they need when a loved one passes. She seeks to be creative and innovative, and strives to offer love and care to all. To Kris, it is her ministry, not her job. Her philosophy is “No ask is too small or too big, there is a reason it was asked, and we need to make it happen.”
Samantha Baldridge
Assistant Manager, Funeral Director & Embalmer, Preneed Specialist
Samantha was born and raised in Axtell, Texas. She graduated from Baylor University with a degree in anthropology and a concentration in forensic science, all while working as a private caregiver in the Waco area.
After attending a funeral service for a family member at Grace Gardens, Sam felt a calling to serve others through the funeral profession. She began her journey as a funeral assistant, and following the passing of her father in 2022, she felt an even deeper sense of purpose to continue serving families during life’s most tender moments.
Sam graduated from Commonwealth Institute in Houston, Texas, and has earned her licenses in both Funeral Directing and Embalming. In September of 2025, she married, beginning an exciting new chapter in her personal life alongside her professional calling.
Known as the glue that holds the team together, Sam brings innovation, creativity, and technological expertise to Grace Gardens, strengthening both daily operations and the care provided to every family served.
Samantha Baldridge
Assistant Manager, Funeral Director & Embalmer, Preneed Specialist
Samantha was born and raised in Axtell, Texas. She graduated from Baylor University with a degree in anthropology and a concentration in forensic science, all while working as a private caregiver in the Waco area.
After attending a funeral service for a family member at Grace Gardens, Sam felt a calling to serve others through the funeral profession. She began her journey as a funeral assistant, and following the passing of her father in 2022, she felt an even deeper sense of purpose to continue serving families during life’s most tender moments.
Sam graduated from Commonwealth Institute in Houston, Texas, and has earned her licenses in both Funeral Directing and Embalming. In September of 2025, she married, beginning an exciting new chapter in her personal life alongside her professional calling.
Known as the glue that holds the team together, Sam brings innovation, creativity, and technological expertise to Grace Gardens, strengthening both daily operations and the care provided to every family served.
Kimberly Lester
Executive Assistant
Kimberly Lester was born and raised in the Great State of Texas. She is a proud mother of 2 boys, as well as a grandmother of a beautiful grandbaby.
Kimberly has stepped into many different roles in life, but in her heart, she has a deep love for people and their wellbeing. Kimberly was introduced to Grace Gardens when a dear friend of hers passed away, Kim spent time planning and interacting with the Grace Gardens’ staff. Kim was approached with an opportunity to become part of the Grace Gardens family, and after careful consideration, she said yes. She said yes because of her love for people and the opportunity to help them in their time of grief.
In addition to her role at Grace, she is also a supporter and participant in Waco Fosters Love, Share the Warmth blanket drive for the Homeless, Out of the Darkness Suicide prevention and awareness, Hurricane support, as well as multiple fundraising coordination and organization events, and a supporter of the local talents in arts and music.
Kim wants all to know that they matter, her words of wisdom are “make a difference when and where you can!”, and her motto is "Be Kind", "Keep Smiling Always", "Peace, love and Happiness to all".
Kim brings genuine love, light, and caring for all that cross her path.
Keep Smiling!
Kimberly Lester
Executive Assistant
Kimberly Lester was born and raised in the Great State of Texas. She is a proud mother of 2 boys, as well as a grandmother of a beautiful grandbaby.
Kimberly has stepped into many different roles in life, but in her heart, she has a deep love for people and their wellbeing. Kimberly was introduced to Grace Gardens when a dear friend of hers passed away, Kim spent time planning and interacting with the Grace Gardens’ staff. Kim was approached with an opportunity to become part of the Grace Gardens family, and after careful consideration, she said yes. She said yes because of her love for people and the opportunity to help them in their time of grief.
In addition to her role at Grace, she is also a supporter and participant in Waco Fosters Love, Share the Warmth blanket drive for the Homeless, Out of the Darkness Suicide prevention and awareness, Hurricane support, as well as multiple fundraising coordination and organization events, and a supporter of the local talents in arts and music.
Kim wants all to know that they matter, her words of wisdom are “make a difference when and where you can!”, and her motto is "Be Kind", "Keep Smiling Always", "Peace, love and Happiness to all".
Kim brings genuine love, light, and caring for all that cross her path.
Keep Smiling!
Yazkara Cervantez
Office & Funeral Assistant
Yaz is a valued member of the Grace Gardens team whose journey into funeral service began through her work alongside the grave-digging crew. Her dedication, strong work ethic, and natural ability to connect quickly became evident, leading her to transition into a role in the front office.
A proud mother of two, Yaz brings both compassion and warmth to the families she serves. Known for her vibrant personality and welcoming spirit, she has a special way of brightening the office each day, offering comfort, kindness, and reassurance to those who walk through the doors. Her genuine care for others and positive presence make her an important part of the Grace Gardens family and the community we serve.
Yazkara Cervantez
Office & Funeral Assistant
Yaz is a valued member of the Grace Gardens team whose journey into funeral service began through her work alongside the grave-digging crew. Her dedication, strong work ethic, and natural ability to connect quickly became evident, leading her to transition into a role in the front office.
A proud mother of two, Yaz brings both compassion and warmth to the families she serves. Known for her vibrant personality and welcoming spirit, she has a special way of brightening the office each day, offering comfort, kindness, and reassurance to those who walk through the doors. Her genuine care for others and positive presence make her an important part of the Grace Gardens family and the community we serve.
Tonya Pierce
Care Team Coordinator
Tonya Pierce
Care Team Coordinator
Brandon Rodriguez
Care Team Assistant, Preneed Specialist, Crematory Operator & Funeral Assistant
Brandon Rodriguez is a Waco native and proud graduate of Midway High School, class of 2006. A devoted husband to Kristina and father to two energetic boys, Rhett (4) and Charlie (3), Brandon centers his life around faith, family, and hard work.
Later in life, he discovered a calling in the funeral service profession and quickly developed a deep respect for the responsibility and compassion the industry requires. Now attending mortuary school at Northeast Texas Community College, Brandon is pursuing his passion with purpose—committed to serving families with dignity, care, and integrity.
Brandon Rodriguez
Care Team Assistant, Preneed Specialist, Crematory Operator & Funeral Assistant
Brandon Rodriguez is a Waco native and proud graduate of Midway High School, class of 2006. A devoted husband to Kristina and father to two energetic boys, Rhett (4) and Charlie (3), Brandon centers his life around faith, family, and hard work.
Later in life, he discovered a calling in the funeral service profession and quickly developed a deep respect for the responsibility and compassion the industry requires. Now attending mortuary school at Northeast Texas Community College, Brandon is pursuing his passion with purpose—committed to serving families with dignity, care, and integrity.
Ryan Baldridge
Crematory Manager
Ryan is a long time Woodway resident. He graduated from Midway High School in 2002.
Ryan is very detail oriented and is a huge asset to Grace Gardens. He began working as a funeral assistant in 2017. His organizational skills improved many facets of our daily operations. In 2019, he took on the role of crematory operator, using his gifts to provide reliable and dignified service.
Ryan is currently the crematory manager, overseeing all aspects of the cremation process. He also provides technical support and helps in other avenues of funeral service. Even though Ryan doesn’t serve families face to face, his support to the staff and his service of cremation is his way of offering support and care to all.
Ryan enjoys repairing antique clocks and watches, restoring antiques, collecting old photos, and fountain pens.
Ryan Baldridge
Crematory Manager
Ryan is a long time Woodway resident. He graduated from Midway High School in 2002.
Ryan is very detail oriented and is a huge asset to Grace Gardens. He began working as a funeral assistant in 2017. His organizational skills improved many facets of our daily operations. In 2019, he took on the role of crematory operator, using his gifts to provide reliable and dignified service.
Ryan is currently the crematory manager, overseeing all aspects of the cremation process. He also provides technical support and helps in other avenues of funeral service. Even though Ryan doesn’t serve families face to face, his support to the staff and his service of cremation is his way of offering support and care to all.
Ryan enjoys repairing antique clocks and watches, restoring antiques, collecting old photos, and fountain pens.
Scott Rhodes
Chaplain, Grounds & Maintenance, Funeral Assistant
Scott grew up in the Houston area. However, his family visited Waco on a regular basis as most of his extended family resided here. Scott has degrees from Baylor University and the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Scott has been involved in public education, Christian camping, and spent over 26 years serving in local church in youth ministry and educational ministry. He continues his ministry by supply preaching, at Grace Gardens, and writing curriculum for various organizations, and is the Pastor of Golinda Baptist Church.
He has been a great addition to Grace Gardens and a great support to the staff and many families we serve. If you encounter unsatisfactory conditions in the building, please inform him so he can repair it for you.
Scott Rhodes
Chaplain, Grounds & Maintenance, Funeral Assistant
Scott grew up in the Houston area. However, his family visited Waco on a regular basis as most of his extended family resided here. Scott has degrees from Baylor University and the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Scott has been involved in public education, Christian camping, and spent over 26 years serving in local church in youth ministry and educational ministry. He continues his ministry by supply preaching, at Grace Gardens, and writing curriculum for various organizations, and is the Pastor of Golinda Baptist Church.
He has been a great addition to Grace Gardens and a great support to the staff and many families we serve. If you encounter unsatisfactory conditions in the building, please inform him so he can repair it for you.
Alice Ledbetter
Funeral Assistant
Alice is a long time resident of Robinson. With her husband Tom, they have served numerous churches in our area. They currently attend Renew.
Alice loves to travel and enjoys going to her grandchildren's activities.
Alice Ledbetter
Funeral Assistant
Alice is a long time resident of Robinson. With her husband Tom, they have served numerous churches in our area. They currently attend Renew.
Alice loves to travel and enjoys going to her grandchildren's activities.
Betty Walsleben
Funeral Assistant
Betty grew up in Bruceville Eddy. She has worked in the office of Midway High School and Lorena High School. She enjoys cruising, crafts and spending time with her grandchildren.
Betty and David have enjoyed 47 years of marriage. They have two adult children and four grandchildren.
Betty Walsleben
Funeral Assistant
Betty grew up in Bruceville Eddy. She has worked in the office of Midway High School and Lorena High School. She enjoys cruising, crafts and spending time with her grandchildren.
Betty and David have enjoyed 47 years of marriage. They have two adult children and four grandchildren.
Scott Talley
Funeral Assistant
Scott is a retired minister with 48 years of experience, and still attends and serves at the local church he retired from. His ministry experience includes Youth Ministry, Executive Ministry, and general pastoral duties.
He has an undergraduate degree in business and graduate studies in Theology and Church Leadership. He and his wife of 55 years, Linda, have two adult children and two grandsons. Linda Talley is a retired high school English teacher. Scott is an encourager to all he meets and an asset to Grace Gardens.
Scott Talley
Funeral Assistant
Scott is a retired minister with 48 years of experience, and still attends and serves at the local church he retired from. His ministry experience includes Youth Ministry, Executive Ministry, and general pastoral duties.
He has an undergraduate degree in business and graduate studies in Theology and Church Leadership. He and his wife of 55 years, Linda, have two adult children and two grandsons. Linda Talley is a retired high school English teacher. Scott is an encourager to all he meets and an asset to Grace Gardens.
Tammy Freedman
Funeral Assistant
Tammy Freedman teaches 1st grade at a local public school. When she is not teaching, she enjoys working as an assistant at Grace Gardens and also spending time with her 3 amazing daughters.
Tammy Freedman
Funeral Assistant
Tammy Freedman teaches 1st grade at a local public school. When she is not teaching, she enjoys working as an assistant at Grace Gardens and also spending time with her 3 amazing daughters.
Emily Driver
After Care Specialist
Emily was born and raised in Houston, Texas. She is a graduate of Texas A&M University, Galveston. She enjoys traveling with her husband and taking day trips to the beach with her beloved dog.
Emily enjoys working behind the scenes and supporting our families and our staff. She is always a text away and is in constant contact with the funeral directors. Her caring and compassionate nature make her perfect for her role at Grace Gardens.
Emily Driver
After Care Specialist
Emily was born and raised in Houston, Texas. She is a graduate of Texas A&M University, Galveston. She enjoys traveling with her husband and taking day trips to the beach with her beloved dog.
Emily enjoys working behind the scenes and supporting our families and our staff. She is always a text away and is in constant contact with the funeral directors. Her caring and compassionate nature make her perfect for her role at Grace Gardens.
