In Loving Memory of Larry Gawain Rea
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Larry Gawain Rea (LGR), who passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026, at the age of 86, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.
Larry was born on November 16, 1939, in Hahn, Missouri, to Hobert J. Rea and Lois M. Rea. Throughout his life, Larry was known for his strong work ethic, and as he grew older, for his kindness, generous heart, wonderful sense of humor, and unwavering love for his family and friends.
Larry dedicated 41 years of service to McDonnell Douglas and later Boeing, where he built a respected career and formed many lifelong friendships. His dedication to his work was remarkable, he went more than 10 years without missing a single sick day. Employees were commonly known by their initials, and to his coworkers, Larry was simply "LGR."
Larry had his own way of doing things, which, to him, was usually the only way to do them. There were no cutting corners. Your I's had to be dotted, your T's had to be crossed, and everything had to be nice and neat. That attention to detail and determination were simply part of who Larry was.
Larry married the love of his life, Barbara A. Rea (Dona), on May 23, 1964. Together they shared 58 wonderful years of marriage, filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. In their early years together, Barbara lovingly cared for Larry, always making sure he was ready for work each day and supporting him in every way she could. They were true partners, perfectly matched in life and in love.
As the years passed and Barbara's health declined, Larry lovingly returned that same care and devotion, faithfully standing by her side and making sure she had everything she needed. Their love was one of quiet commitment, selflessness, and deep respect. After Barbara's passing, Larry missed her every single day. We find comfort in knowing they are together once again, reunited in the love they shared throughout their lives.
Larry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. After his retirement, his greatest joy came from spending time with his family, creating lasting memories, and always being there for those he loved.
He enjoyed golfing, researching his family genealogy, traveling, taking cruises, family gatherings, gardening, mowing his property, and spending countless hours working in his shop. Genealogy was a particular passion of Larry's-and if he met you, chances are he had already researched your family tree or soon would!
Larry also loved cheering on his family from the sidelines. He rarely missed a Marquette game and took great pride in watching the kids compete. If he couldn't be there in person, he made sure to watch the game online, never wanting to miss a moment. Whether he was tending to his garden, mowing his property, planning the next family trip, researching another family tree, or building something in his workshop, Larry found joy in sharing his time, love, and encouragement with those around him.
One of Larry's proudest moments came during his final days in the hospital when the Rea Golf Team, of which Larry was the captain-Steven, Nolan, Jack, and Sam-brought home the championship. Although he wished with all his heart that he could have been there, the boys kept him updated after every hole.
Larry eagerly shared each update with the doctors, nurses, and just about anyone who walked into his room. His smile and pride were unmistakable as he celebrated their accomplishment from his hospital bed. It was a moment that perfectly reflected his deep love for his family, his love of golf, and the tremendous joy he found in their successes.
Larry is survived by his daughters, Catherine Rea and Michelle (Timothy) Valentine; his granddaughter, Haley Cummins; his beloved great-granddaughter, Rosemarie Elizabeth Cummins; his nephew, Steven (Meredith) Rea, and their children, Nolan, Catherine, Caroline, Jack, Sam, and Annie; his niece, Delia Rea, and her children, Faith and Caden; his nephew, Dustin (Jennifer) Rea, and their children, Carter and Cameron; extended family members Karen, Skip, and Amelia Arensmann; as well as many cherished friends whose lives he touched.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara A. Rea (Dona); his parents, Hobert J. Rea and Lois M. Rea; his brothers, Hobert W. Rea and Carl E. Rea; and his nephew, Hobie Rea.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Michael Anderson, Sam Rea, John and Robin Kubiak, Glenn Bolton, Steve Wagner, Steven Rea, Delia Rea, Dan Dona, Bob and Sarah Anderson, Karen, Skip, and Amelia Arensmann; neighbors Georgia and Jackson, Tucker and Charlie Waters, and Barbara Gable; friend Terry Westfall; and the staff at Home Instead, especially Laila and Sandy.
Your love, support, prayers, kindness, and compassion during Larry's final days and throughout this difficult time have meant more to our family than words can express. We are forever grateful for the comfort, friendship, and care you provided.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home, 1313 W. Delmar Avenue, Godfrey, Illinois 62035. A funeral service will immediately follow, with interment at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.
Following the interment, family and friends are invited to join us for a Celebration of Life at the Alton-Wood River Sportsmen's Club, where food and refreshments will be served. Together, we will honor Larry by sharing memories, telling the many stories that made him so special, and celebrating a life well lived. We hope you'll stay to laugh, reminisce, share a favorite Larry story, and remember "LGR" with us.
Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that Larry's love, wisdom, and gentle spirit will remain with us forever. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
We find peace in imagining Larry reunited with our beloved Mom-together again and getting ready to tee off for his very first round of golf in Heaven.
Until we meet again, may he rest in eternal peace.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
