Doris Rhea

Doris Rhea entered into eternal rest on April 3, 2023, at the age of 80.

Born to the late Howard and Lola Mae McPherson and sister of Charlena Shipley, Doris is the beloved wife of Harold Rhea, and the dedicated mother of Shari Meier (Michael), Steven Rhea (Karen), and Scott Rhea (Stephanie). She is the faithful grandmother of Kaitlyn Harrier (Ian), Samantha Grannemann (Stephen), Stephanie Rhea (Jeff), Jaime Meier, Adam Rhea, and Kelsey Rhea, and is the honorary grandmother of Ayla McNeeley (Andrew). She is also the cherished great-grandmother (“GiGi”) of Skylar Grannemann, Olivia McNeeley, and “Baby Boy” Grannemann.

A graduate of O’Fallon Technical High School, Doris could type 70 words per minute and excelled in shorthand. Soon after, she married Harold, and the pair journeyed together for 62 more years. Doris was a jack of all trades: a secretary for St. John’s U.C.C. in Mehlville, a hairdresser, and an office manager for Remax Gold. Active participants in Gateway Car Club, Doris and Harold traveled across the Midwest showcasing their red 55 Ford F100. She accumulated an impressive collection of over 125 teapots from around the world.

Doris was not just a cheerleader for all her grandchildren, but she deeply encouraged them to pursue their dreams. It did not matter what event it was; they knew their grandma would be there rallying the troops. When there were no major events to attend, Doris’ house was open for “Pot Roast Tuesdays,” cups of tea with Famous Amos cookies, and good conversation. She was the heart of her family.

There are no adequate words to describe how beloved Doris is to those around her. She had a notable laugh that encouraged all to share her joy. She could make friends with anyone and leaves a legacy full of smiles.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ-Oakville .

Visitation, Thursday April 13, 2023, 4 p.m.to 7 p.m. at John L. Ziegenehien & Sons South County Chapel, 4830 Lemay Ferry Rd. St. Louis, MO 63129. Funeral Friday April 14, 2023, 9:45 a.m. also at the funeral home. Interment in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.