Rhodes was born Leah Margaret Montgomery in Port Arthur, Texas. As a young woman, Rhodes worked as a sign painted and window designer in Port Arthur and San Antonio. In 1921, she married auto mechanic Russel Spurgeon Rhodes. Five years later the couple moved to the San Fernando Valley where Russel managed a car dealership.[1]
After moving to California, Rhodes began working as a buyer and shopper for Warner Brothers. Eventually, she became Orry-Kelly's chief assistant. When Orry-Kelly enlisted in the army, Rhodes took over Bette Davis's wardrobe for Old Acquaintances.[1]
