Rhea Marie Sherman

Rhea Marie Sherman, 101, of Eldridge, formerly of Donahue, passed away peacefully at her home on February 27, 2026, with her loving family by her side. Per Rhea's wishes, a private graveside service was held at Allens Grove Cemetery in Donahue.

Born on August 26, 1924, outside of Buffalo, Iowa, Rhea was the oldest child of Chris and Mary Willroth. She graduated from Buffalo High School in 1942, where she was the Captain of the girls' basketball team. She was united in marriage to Grant Sherman on September 30, 1950, in San Diego, Ca., where Grant was stationed serving in the Navy. They enjoyed riding motorcycles, bowling and raising their family together for over 46 years, until his passing in 1997. Rhea retired from Deere & Company after many years of work in the Administrative Legal department.

Rhea was a lifelong Iowa Hawkeye basketball fan. She also enjoyed sewing, quilting and attending the sporting events of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a devoted member of the Donahue American Legion- Post 532 and an integral part of the Ladies Auxiliary.

Her survivors include her children, Gwendolyn (Don) Henzen, Connie (Clyde) Tobey, and Mike Sherman, all of Eldridge; grandchildren, Jennifer (Scott) Hoffmann, Alissa (Terry) Haase, Tony Welp, all of Eldridge, and Clint (Sarah) Henzen of Dixon; great-grandchildren, Erica Henzen, Ava Haase, Grant Haase, and Corrine Henzen.

Rhea is preceded in death by her parents, Chris and Mary; husband Grant; brother Eugene Willroth and sister Irene Scherer.