Rhea Ann Smith
February 22, 1947 – May 16, 2025

Rhea Ann Smith, age 78, passed away unexpectedly at her home on May 16, 2025, in Malad, Idaho after many years of endured health trials and pain.

Rhea was born on February 22, 1947, in Pocatello, Idaho, to Walton and Evelyn Wolfe. She was the oldest daughter of 6 children and loved helping her parents care for her younger siblings. She was involved in the marching band at school twirling baton. She married the love of her life, Gordon Smith, on January 20, 1967, in the Logan, Utah Latter-day Saint Temple. Together, they built a beautiful life full of love, family, and dedication to others.

Shortly after marrying, Rhea and Gordon made their home in Pocatello for a brief time before settling in Twin Falls, Idaho, where they raised their girls and lived for over 50 years. For nearly 30 of those years, they lovingly maintained two homes—one in Twin Falls and another in Malad—to stay close to the people and places they cherished.

Rhea was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She loved spending time with all of them and their families, creating lifelong memories. Throughout her life, Rhea worked as a telephone operator and held several clerical positions, but she was most proud of the many businesses she owned and operated alongside Gordon. No matter what the job, Rhea poured her heart into her work and her family.

Rhea was known for her amazing cooking/baking and unmatched sewing skills. She was constantly working—often behind the scenes, quietly serving others with a generous and loving spirit. Her heart was as big as her capacity to give, and she never hesitated to open her home or lend a hand to anyone in need.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Walton and Evelyn Wolfe, her sister Peggy Call, and other sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law. She is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Gordon; Shawna (Terry) Howe of Kimberly, ID; Wendy (Todd) Andersen of Pocatello, ID; Heather (Gary) Tucker of Malad, ID & Lehi, UT; and Shannon (Jason) Killian of Idaho Falls, ID. She was also blessed with 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren who were the pride and joy of her life, her siblings Richard (Denette) Wolfe, Mike (Deanne) Wolfe, Marsha (Richard) Nelson; Jeff (Brenda) Wolfe, her brothers-in-law, Mike Call and Jim (Judy) Smith.

Rhea was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and faithfully served in many callings, including Primary, Young Women’s, and Relief Society. Her unwavering faith and desire to serve reflected the deep love she held for her Savior and for those around her.

Rhea’s legacy is one of boundless compassion, quiet strength, and enduring love. Her home was always open, her heart always full, and her life was a shining example of service, faith, and family.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2025, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. at the Malad Stake Center, 1250 N 1100 W. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the same location, with an additional viewing prior to the service from 9:30–10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at the Malad Cemetery.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the first responders in Malad and the staff at Oneida County Hospital for their attentive and compassionate care. They also wish to express deep gratitude to the many friends and neighbors near and far that have shown kindness and love over the years through countless visits and thoughtful support.

Rhea will be dearly missed by all who had the blessing of knowing her. Her life was a testament to the power of love, family, and service—values she lived by and leaves as a legacy for us all.