James R. “Jim” Rea, Sr., 86, of Butler, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, with his family by his side.
Born December 23, 1936, in Butler, he was the son of the late Frank B. and the late Grace (McMillen) Rea.
Jim was a 1954 graduate of Butler High School and went on to attend Roberts Wesleyan University in Rochester, NY. After college, he honorably served his country in the US Army. Jim was a long time member of the Butler Church of the Nazarene, where he enjoyed singing and glorifying God. He had a passion for music and was a tenor in Barber Shop Quartet. Jim was an avid bowler and was a major fan of basketball; especially the Duquesne Dukes. Above all else, Jim loved being with his family and loved his dog, Angel.
He is survived by his wife, Gladys (Butler) Rea, whom he married on July 23, 1983, two daughters; Deborah Rea of Uniontown, PA and Kimberly Sue Berthold and her husband, Christopher, of Baton Rouge, LA; his son, James R. Rea, Jr. of Butler, five grandchildren and one great grandchild.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by two children, Robert Johnston, Sr. and Sheri Parson, one brother and one sister.
Family and friends will be received on Monday, November 6, 2023, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Thompson-Miller Funeral Home, Inc., 124 E. North St., Butler, PA 16001. Military Honors and funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation at 1:00 PM at the funeral home with Pastor Millie Martsolf officiating.
Burial will be made in Greenlawn Burial Estates.
Those who knew Jim are encouraged to share memories and upload photos to his unique remembrance page at www.thompson-miller.com.