Rhea Fay Hannon

July 21, 1924 – March 17, 2013

      Rhea Hannon passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 17, 2013 at The Messenger House on Bainbridge Island, WA surrounded by her loving family.

      Rhea Fay Williams was born July 21, 1924 in Port Blakely, Bainbridge Island to Jurdan and Katherine Willams. Rhea was raised on Bainbridge Island and graduated from Bainbridge High School in 1942. In high school, she was a member of the Cheer squad and was first trumpet in the band. Rhea remained on the island after graduation. It was during this time that she met Walter Hannon, a young Marine who was stationed at Ford Ward during the war. They married and had five children. They later divorced but remained close friends until his death in 2001.

      Rhea had several careers during her lifetime, many at the same time. They included: Northwest Magazine, cab driver, The Bainbridge Review, postmistress in Lynwood Center, hostess at The Martinique Restaurant on Bainbridge Island, owner of her own Ice Cream Shoppe in Lynwood Center, and working for her son at Walt’s Market. Rhea was best known for always having a smile on her face and her love for playing the piano. But nothing compared to her love for her family.

      Rhea is survived by her son Jim (Lottie) of Bainbridge Island, daughter Cathy Hannon of Bainbridge Island, sons Mark (Heidi) of Mesa, Arizona, Walter (Jan) of Bainbridge Island, David (Val) of Bainbridge, grandsons Kyle, Tyler, Brian (Jennifer), Nicholas, Chris (Carrie) Tamblyn of Colorado Springs, CO and Andrew (Alisha) Wanamaker of Austin, TX and granddaughters Shannon Hannon of Portland, OR and Erin (Jeff) Jagelski of Bainbridge Island. In addition, she also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews and friends.

      A memorial service celebrating Rhea’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on April 6, 2013 at Grace Episcopal Church, 8595 NE Day Road, Bainbridge Island, WA. A reception will follow at the church. A private burial was held following her passing. The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at The Messenger House on Bainbridge Island that cared for Rhea during her illness.

      In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Pierce or Kitsap County or Alzheimer’s Research or the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Community.

      Please sign the online Guest Book for the family at: www.cookfamilyfuneralhome.com.

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