Jeffery Leonard Rea

Jeffery Leonard Rea was born on July 2, 1952 in Tuscumbia Missouri to George Leonard Rea and Helen Louise McNeely Rea and passed from this life on May 15, 2016, at 5:15 p.m., after an 11 month battle with cancer. Those left to mourn his passing are his wife Donna Cavaretta Rea, his daughters and son in laws, Lori Rea Patterson of Columbia, Missouri; Jennifer Rea Swann and Tony Swann of Olathe, Kansas; Marla Rea Bunn and Ben Bunn lll of Dayton, Oregon; Nicole Rea and Soulmate TJ Maher of Richardson, Texas; and Kelsey Rea of Springdale, Arkansas; his mother Helen McNeely Rea Tucker of Richardson, Texas; two sisters and brothers in law, Linda Rea Warner and David Warner of Klamath Falls, Oregon; Jody Rea Bost and Jerry Bost of Aurora, Colorado; one brother and sister in law Russell Rea and Lori Rea of Richardson, Texas; seven grandchildren, Justin Noblett, Jessica Noblett, Kathrine Milnes, Mackenzie Rea, William Patterson, Madelyn Bunn and Margaret Bunn, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jeffery was preceded in death by his father George Leonard Rea on May 12, 1975.

He was united in marriage to his wife Donna on September 9, 1988. Jeff and Donna have been long standing members of Creekwood United Methodist Church of Allen, Texas. Jeff had a deep love for his church family and Small Group.

Jeff started his career in telecommunications with United Telephone Systems in Jefferson City, Missouri, shortly after graduating from high school. He later moved to Northern Telecom, then to Nokia Siemens, where he retired after 42 years of service. Shortly after retirement, Jeffery and Donna launched Caring Transitions North Dallas Suburbs business, which will continue in Jeff’s legacy.

A uniquely talented and gifted man, Jeff positively impacted the lives of many, as he journeyed through his life, traveling from one community to the next, one country to another. He was a devoted and loyal son, brother, husband, father, employee and friend. He loved golfing and boating with his family and friends. He understood the value of a life lived well, a gift given to all, but grasped by few. He was a source of respite, comfort and strength to all who knew him, an anchor for us all. His legacy will continue to live on through all whose lives were touched by his love and compassion. He will be sorely missed.

A memorial service will be held at Creekwood United Methodist Church on Thursday, May 19, 2016 at 4:00 p.m. The family requests in lieu of flowers that donations be made to Habitat for Humanity of Collin County or Purple Martin Conservation Society.