Melanie Jean Rhea, 81 of Ontario passed away September 30, 2025 at Lexington Court Care Center. She was born July 28, 1944 in Chattanogga, TN the daughter of Paul and Mary Costello Himburg.
Melanie was a registered nurse, graduating from Deaconess School of Nursing in Cincinnati, and worked most of her career for Ohio Health. She was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church of Jeromesville.
She is survived by her husband, Jerry Rhea, to whom she was married December 30, 1989, three sons, Charles (Betty) Richter of Georgetown, OH, Chad Richter of Maineville and David Zimmerman of Dillsboro, IN, two daughters, Lisa Mangus of Wilmington and Emily (Derrick) Johnston of Spencer, 12 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren, a sister, Susan Himburg of Columbus, and a brother, Don Himburg of Cincinnati.
She was preceded in death by a grandchild, Jacob Mangus, and a brother, Mark Himburg.
Services will be 10:30 AM Monday October 6, 2025 at the Trinity Lutheran Church of Jeromesville with Pastor Jay Jackson Jr. and Pastor Penti Maki officiating. Burial will be at Mansfield Memorial Park in Ontario.
Friends may call Sunday October 5, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 PM at Fickes Funeral Home in Jeromesville or from 9:30-10:30 AM at the church before the service on Monday.
Online condolences may be made at www.fickesfuneralhome.com.