Mabel Kathleen Rhea, 89, known as Kathleen, and affectionately known by her family as “Honey” passed away peacefully on September 27, 2010 in Austin. She was born on October 8, 1920 in Corsicana, TX to Willoughby Eugene and Kathleen Roberts Hearne Rogers,the third of six children and their only daughter.
Her parents and brothers, Billy,Vernon and an infant, preceded her in death. Also preceding her are her husband of 55 years, Alvie M. Rhea, great-grandson Nicolas Cody and son-in-law Billy H. Reeves. Survivors are daughter Linda Reeves of Manchaca; son Richard W. (Sharon) Rhea of Austin; grandchildren, Mark (Kathy) Reeves of Manchaca; Jeffrey (Alice) Reeves of Buda; Susan (Glen) Boatright of Rosanky, TX, Michael (Michelle) Rhea of Moody, TX and Melissa (Rob) Windisman of Round Rock; 16 great-grandchildren; one great-grandchild; two brothers and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
Alvie and Kathleen were married on Easter Sunday in 1940. She was mostly a stay-at-home wife and mother until going to work for the State of Texas Building Commission, from which she retired in 1985 after 30 years of service. She was a lifetime member of the National Women in Construction where she held many offices, including serving as president from 1967-1968. During her tenure, she was involved in the planning and eventual construction of the gazebo on Lady Bird Lake.
Funeral services were held Saturday, October 2 at Harrell Funeral Home in Austin with interment at Austin Memorial Park.
Contributions may be made to HYBSA, P. O. Box 719, Buda, TX 78610, Boy Scouts of America, 7540 Ed Bluestein Blvd., Austin. TX 78723, The Miami Project, 1095 NW 14th Ter., No. R-48, Miami FL 33136 or charity of choice.
