Virginia (Ginny) Gae Phillips Rhea, 74, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family Sept. 4, 2022, after sudden complications from a massive stroke and prolonged illness. Ginny was born Jan. 30, 1948, in Tooele, Utah, to Darlene Shields and Charles Phillips. She was later adopted by her stepdad, Henry Leroy Box. She married her sweetheart Kenneth Rhea Jr. on Nov. 18, 1966, in the Salt Lake City Temple and eventually became the proud mother of five beautiful children.
Ginny’s passing marks the loss of a truly beautiful, Christ-like soul. She was unsurpassed in her ability to exemplify charity and kindness, and her compassionate heart blessed the lives of all she called friends. She saved her greatest love for her family, whom she fondly called her “Rheas of Sunshine.” Her home was a monument to her family: every wall memorialized with ‘Rheas of Sunshine’ whom she loved dearly and unconditionally. Ginny was so proud to be their mother and grandmother and each of them were never far removed from her thoughts. Even in her frail condition, she was their biggest cheerleader attending as many events as her health would allow.
As an excuse to be near her children and grandchildren, Ginny volunteered countless hours in many schools and for many activities. In her later years she affectionately became known as “Grandma Rhea” to many in the community — she wore the title as a badge of honor. Ginny was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serving in various leadership callings throughout her life. Once she discovered social media she became prolific in her service as a member missionary sharing daily gospel messages to her family and friends.
She suffered from many ailments and was often in much pain but never complained. She faithfully demonstrated the principle of enduring to the end and did so with grace and beauty. In the end, her body could not keep pace with her unrelenting love for others.
She is survived by her eternal companion Kenneth Rhea Jr.; children Michael (Natalie), Matthew (Kellie), Jody (Aaron) Thomas, Christopher (Vanessa), and Lisa (Clinton) Bryant; 26 grandchildren; one great-grandson; sister Shelly; and brother Roy (Joyce).
A viewing will be held Friday, Sept. 9, 2022, at the Tooele 19th LDS Ward building, 1030 S. 900 West, Tooele, Utah, from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Funeral service will begin at 11 a.m.