Dottie Rhea

Dottie Mae Rhea, 85, of Safford, entered into rest on February 10, 2013. She was born on April 8, 1927 in Fairview, Montana to Charles and Emma Wing. Dottie was home-schooled from kindergarten though her high school years. From that point on her life was a whir of activity. She was a very talented woman who contributed greatly to those around her. She worked as a professional card dealer and in home health care. She was a very talented baker and took home many blue ribbons from the fair for her breads, cakes and pies. Some of her favorite things to do were, dancing, listening to country music, fishing and camping in the RV, playing bingo, shopping the yard sales, making strong fashion statements and watching sports with Phil. Her favorite NFL team was the New England Patriots. She was also an avid collector and loved to ride motorcycles with Phil. Some of the most memorable events in Dotties life were her trip to Hawaii with Phil, participating with her church worship team and the never ending job of decorating her home. But the most meaningful memory of recent days was having all seven of her children together in her home. Dottie was a past member of Eastern Star, a lifetime member of the VFW Auxiliary and an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary. She also received a Certificate of Recognition from the VFW. She is preceded in death by her parents and 11 brothers and sisters. She is survived by her loving husband Philip Rhea to whom she was married on July 11, 1999 in Spokane Washington; her children, Georgene Heidrick, Myrna Ball, Rick Wellbrook, Strawberri Martello, Wayne Wellbrook, Penny Haglund and Terri Platz; many grandchildren; many great grandchildren, and many great great grandchildren. The family will be holding a private memorial service in rememberance of Dottie's life at a later date. Any contributions that wish to be made can be given to Phil Rhea of Safford.