of Panama City, FL

July 5, 1937 - August 15, 2024

Jimmy Curtis Rhea, known affectionately as Jim, passed away on August 15, 2024 in Panama City, Florida. Born on July 5, 1937, Jim lived a full life marked by devotion to his family and his country.

Jim's early life was spent in Greenbrier and West Memphis, Arkansas, where he graduated from West Memphis High School in 1955. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving notably in the 4750th Drone Squadron in Yuma, Arizona, a pioneering unit in operational drone technology. His military career also took him to Lowry Air Force Base, a foundational site for the Air Force Academy, a place of pride later deepened by the graduation of two of his granddaughters from the same institution. Later, while stationed in Colorado, he found Jodie, the love of his life at a USO dance and they moved to his final military assignment with the 4756th Drone Squadron at Tyndall Air Force Base in Panama City.

Following his honorable discharge, Jim transitioned to a successful career as a government contractor, working with notable firms such as Teledyne Ryan, Northrup Grumman, General Electric and Cartwright Electronics. His work as an Assistant Base Manager, Base Manager and Project Manager spanned various locations, including stints in Germany, California and Texas, though he always returned to Panama City, the community he cherished.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Jodie Rhea; his sons, Lance Rhea (Martha) and Jay Rhea; his daughter, Cindy Horne (Garth); grandsons, Justin Rhea (Anh), Jayson Rhea (Jenica) and Garrett Horne (Stephanie); granddaughters, Rheagan Pratt (Trevor) and Kenady Morrissey (Brady); his sister, Barbara Spencer and several nieces and a nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents, Milam and Sarah Agnes Rhea.

Jim was a passionate and loyal man, known for his friendly, kind-hearted and humorous nature. He loved watching football and the news. He was a fan of the Dallas Cowboys, Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos, Arkansas Razorbacks and the Florida Gators. Prior to his diagnosis, he was an avid boater, golfer and an active member of his Masonic Lodge. His love for his family, God and country was evident in how he raised his family.

Memorial services will be held at 1:00pm on Thursday, August 22, 2024 in the Wilson Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends at the Wilson Funeral Home from 12-1:00pm prior to the service. A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2024 from 12-1:00pm in the Springhill Baptist Church, Greenbrier, Arkansas with a graveside service following in the Springhill Cemetery at 1:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research or the Air Force Aid Society.

The family would also like to send a special thank you to Jimmy's friends and the staff at The Blake Assisted Living and Memory Care Community. We will always remember the kind and loving way you cared for our father.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-McNutt Funeral Home
650 Central Landing Blvd.
Conway, AR  72032
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com