William "Bill" Samuel Rhea IV

William Samuel Rhea IV (Bill) passed away on January 23, 2026, at the age of 86. He was born on November 9, 1939, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Growing up in New Orleans, he met his loving wife of 68 years, Darrelyn (Dee) Douglas.

Bill graduated with honors in mathematics from the University of Southwestern Louisiana. After a brief career teaching physics and chemistry in high school, he joined Shell Oil Company, where he enjoyed a long career in Information Technology until his retirement. During his tenure at Shell, he was transferred to multiple cities and offices, including New York, London, and ultimately, Houston, Texas. Highlights of his career included extensive travel around the globe, with Singapore being his favorite destination, and earning the nickname "The Wizard of OS (Operating Systems)."

Upon retirement, Bill delved deeply into various hobbies, including woodworking, range shooting, painting, and geology. He was known for his curiosity and love of learning. He also had a green thumb, maintaining an impeccable garden that was the envy of many neighbors.

Never one to pass up an invitation to travel or share a meal with family, Bill loved celebrating and enjoying good food. A connoisseur of fine cuisine and wine, he was also an accomplished chef. He compiled many of his own recipes and passed on his passion for cooking to several family members.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, William and Margaret Rhea; his in-laws, Stuart and Hazel Douglas; and his granddaughter, Kate DiSorbo.

He is survived by his wife, Darrelyn Rhea; his children, Allison Anders and husband, Dr. Bob Kolbusz, Bill Rhea and wife, Phyllis Rhea, Cindy Rhea, Dr. Lori Rhea, and Eydie Webster and husband, Tony Webster; his grandchildren, Dr. Melissa Allen, Ryan Anders, Sam Rhea, Tom Rhea, Chris Brobst, Daniel Brobst, Nick Brobst, John Brobst, Jack DiSorbo, Sophie Baldwin, Paul DiSorbo, and Darrelyn Webster; and fourteen great-grandchildren.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the ICU staff at Seton Northwest Hospital for their loving care and compassion.

Memorial services are pending for a later date.