Dorthea Lorene “Dorcy” Rhea went home to our Lord and Savior on January 6, 2026, at the ripe old age of 91. She was born on July 17, 1934, to Loren John and Edna MaVon Minster. Dorcy was known for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to her family. Throughout her life, she touched the hearts of many and left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She had an infectious laugh—loud, joyful, and unforgettable.
Dorcy grew up in the Heights area of Houston, where she loved school and excelled as a student. She was a proud member of the Reagan High School Redcoats. After graduating, she went straight to work and met her future husband, Ted, in downtown Houston. They married just six weeks later. Their marriage lasted 26 years until Ted’s passing, and together they raised four beautiful children.
Dorcy was a devoted and loving mother who adored her children. She served as a Boy Scout leader, Camp Fire Girl leader, garage play coordinator, and talented dressmaker. Her daughters were always proud to wear the dresses she lovingly made for them each Easter. Dorcy also worked at her children’s school for more than 12 years, a role that allowed her to be home when they were home—a priority she cherished.
Dorcy leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love and family. She is survived by her children: John Patrick Rhea, Sr.; Pamela Sue Rhea Kight and husband Kevin; and Melissa Ann Rhea and husband Richard Larson.
Grandchildren: Arwen Rhea (Kris Gilley), Megan Rhea, Chrisie Wilder (Christopher), John Rhea, Jr. (Monica), Ted Richard Rhea, Rebecca Hooker (Christopher), Corey Hebert (Lauren), Colby Hebert (Christinia), Johna Kight (Spencer Johnson), Virginia Livingston, Benjamin Larson (Selina), Mark Prince, Jr. (Kelsey), Mitchell Prince (Britney), Mallory Farrow (Phillip), and Chelsea Schofield (Daniel).
Great-grandchildren: Skylar, Winston, Filmore, Allie, Christopher, Noah, Stephen, Corbin, Kaylie, Rylie, Gracie, Kenny, Callie, Ava, Jacob, Carter, Meghan, Austin, Kason, Caydon, Landon, Hadley, Blake, Britni, Cailey, Melody, Madison, Mark III, Kinlee, Adalynn, Paxton, Jetson, Zoey, Theresa, Mia, Hardy, Olivia, Gentry, and Nolan.
Great-great-grandchildren: Gracie, Luke, Adeline, Victoria, and Weston.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Ted R. Rhea; her son, Michael Dean Rhea; her great-grandson, John Patrick Rhea III; and her sisters, Patricia Stroble and Priscilla Layton.
Service Details
Services for Dorthea “Dorcy” Rhea will be held on January 10, 2026, at Grammier-Oberle Funeral Home, located at 4841 39th Street, Port Arthur, Texas 77642. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 3900 Twin City Hwy, Groves, TX.
Memorial donations can be made to The Heart of Nolan Project at https://givebutter.com/Q9WTnQ
“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23
