Rea

James R. “Jim” Rea Sr., 86, of Butler, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023, with his family by his side.

Born Dec. 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, N.Y. After college, he honorably served his country in the U.S. Army.

Jim was a longtime 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 a barbershop 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; and a brother and sister.

REA — Family and friends of James R. “Jim” Rea Sr., who died Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023, will be received from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday at THOMPSON-MILLER FUNERAL HOME, 124 E. North St., Butler. Military honors and funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation at 1 p.m. 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.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.