Rhea is survived by her daughter Jennifer Diamantis, son-in-law David Tawes, and grandson Alexander Tawes; son-in-law John Newton, grandson Nicholas Newton, and granddaughters Georgia Henkes-Newton and Charlotte Newton; and sister Ellen Davis.
Rhea was preceded in death by her husband Honorable George N. Diamantis, daughter Susan Newton, and sister Marian Papermaster.
Rhea graduated from the University of Michigan and was a teacher at Audubon Park Elementary School and Lake Como Elementary School in Orlando. She was an avid butterfly gardener and a strong supporter of the arts and music. She enjoyed needlepoint, photography, traveling, and visiting gardens and museums.
Rhea was known for her strength and positivity and kindness and concern for others. She touched the lives of many family members, friends, and students throughout her life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society, Cancer Research Institute (cancerresearch.org), Doctors Without Borders, or Leu Gardens.