James Green Rea

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of James Green Rea, affectionately known as "Jimmy," on March 4, 2024, at the age of 90. Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, on January 28, 1934, to one of Mecklenburg County's first veterinarians, Jimmy was a man of charisma, warmth, and unparalleled wit.

Jimmy's early nickname, "Doc," a nod to his father's profession, stuck with him through the years, becoming a beloved moniker among friends and family. He carried the legacy of his father's pioneering spirit throughout his life.

Jimmy was a proud graduate of Central High School in Charlotte, NC, in 1952 and later Presbyterian College in Clinton, SC, in 1956. After graduation, he served in the U.S. Army and then ventured into the insurance industry with Travelers Insurance Company before embarking into a real estate and construction business, known as Fort Mill Builders, alongside his brother Calvin. His business acumen and remarkable ability to connect with people led him to success, acquiring and managing commercial properties throughout the greater Charlotte area.

Jimmy is survived by a loving family: his wife, Sandra Grayson Rea and her three children along with his three children from his first marriage to Helena Colyer Rea - James Green Rea Jr. (Sherri) of Charlotte, Catherine Rea Toomey (Jay) of Matthews, NC, David Colyer Rea (Stefani) of Dallas, TX, Ashley Grayson Rudolph (Don) of Greenville, NC, Alexander Brian Grayson (Maia) of Star, ID and Taylor Grayson McClellan (Scott) of New Bern, NC. Additionally, he is survived by 14 grandchildren – JT, Austin (Margaux), & McClendon Rea; Jake & McNeil Toomey; Virginia, Cole (Olivia, fiancé) & Jack Rea; GiGi Rudolph; Gretta & Wolf Grayson; and Abby, Sydney & Dallin McClellan.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his brother Hugh Calvin Rea Jr., "Calvin," his sister, Marilu Rea Sorrells, and his parents, Hugh Calvin Rea Sr. and Flora M. Barnes Rea.

Jimmy and Sandy enjoyed many fun times together, especially their spring and fall beach trips with close friends, tailgating for Presbyterian College and Panthers football games, dinners and time spent with their church family and friends and creating memories with their family and grandchildren.

Jimmy was truly one of a kind. Known as one of the most social people you could ever met, his ability to connect with anyone was unmatched and he never met a stranger. Jimmy’s love for attending his children and grandchildren’s games and school events was unparalleled. He cherished everything about these experiences – the car rides, conversations and especially the meals afterward. These moments were filled with great joy and laughter.

Jimmy’s tremendous sense of humor, charismatic personality and the love he held for his family and friends made him a cherished figure to many. In remembering Jimmy, we celebrate not only his professional achievements but also the warmth, laughter and kindness he brought into our lives. He will be deeply missed.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Unity Presbyterian Church in Fort Mill or Hospice of Fort Mill (VIA Health Partners).

A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, March 8th at 2:30 pm at Unity Presbyterian Church, 303 Tom Hall Street, Fort Mill, SC with a reception to follow.