Rhea Hickmond Laws

Born on the 14th of November 1954, in Montgomery, Alabama, to Katie and Beverly Laws, Rhea’s life was defined by love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to bringing joy to others.

Rhea spent his childhood in Maitland, Florida, where his boundless energy and athleticism made him a standout in football, basketball, and baseball. His competitive spirit and warm personality led to lifelong friendships, many of which he nurtured over the years. He loved and was proud to attend every Winter Park High School reunion. During these formative years, Rhea also discovered his passion for service and mentorship as a camp counselor at Camp Wewa, following in his father’s footsteps and embracing the values of the YMCA community.

In the early 1970s, the Laws family relocated to Houston, Texas, when his father became CEO of the YMCA of Greater Houston. Rhea had a choice to stay and graduate with his classmates in Florida but chose to attend Westchester High School for a semester so he could know people and make friends in his new hometown.

A remarkable athlete, Rhea earned All-American honors as a freshman on the varsity football team. Recruited by every major collegiate programs, he began his college career at the University of Tennessee before transferring to Baylor University, where he continued to excel on and off the field. He graduated with a BBA in Business Administration from Baylor University.

At 18, Rhea was set up on a blind date with the woman who would become the love of his life, Debra. Their love story spanned more than 50 years, beginning with 11 years of dating before marrying in 1985. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and countless treasured memories. Rhea’s greatest joy was making “his girls” — Debra and their daughter Ashley — happy.

Known for his captivating storytelling and infectious humor, Rhea had a rare gift for lighting up a room. Like his father he joined Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, was a member of the Rotary Club of Sugar Land, where he received The Paul Harris Award and was a member of Second Baptist Church.

Rhea will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to family, his joyful spirit, and his signature response to the question “How are you?” — “Outstanding and getting better.”

He is preceded in death by his parents, Katie and Beverly Laws, and his sisters, Lauranne Humphreys and Kathy Laws.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Debra; his daughter Ashley Simmons and her husband Dirk; his cherished grandson, Douglas Rhea Simmons; his brother, Charlie Laws and wife Chrissy; his sister, Janie Macey and husband Chris; brother-in-law Bill Humphreys; and a host of extended family and dear friends who will forever hold his memory close.

A celebration of Rhea’s life is to be conducted at noon on Saturday, the 12th of July in the Jasek Chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston where Pastor Jeff Calhon is to officiate. Immediately prior to the service, friends are invited to gather with the family at eleven o’clock in the morning in the grand foyer.

A private interment will follow at Memorial Oaks Cemetery in Houston.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be made to The Mission of Yahweh a Christian shelter for homeless women and children by visiting https://missionofyahweh.org.

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