Jay C. Rea Sr. age 84, of Toledo passed away peacefully on February 22, 2023 at the Manor at Perrysburg after a long battle with Lewy body dementia.
Jay married his high school sweetheart, Esther, in 1958. Shortly after, they moved to Toledo and started their family of 5 children.
Jay enjoyed boating and fishing on Lake Erie, spending time with his family, and was an active member of the Assembly of Christians church since 1981. Jay enjoyed watching Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Indians baseball, but he especially loved cheering on his kids and grandkids at their various sporting events throughout the years.
Jay's father was a metal finisher and Jay followed in his footsteps. He worked at Al's Polishing, Doehler-Jarvis, and Devilbiss before starting his own metal finishing company, Rea Polishing, in 1976. He put his heart and soul into his company until he retired in 2015, leaving his oldest son, Jay Jr., to continue the family business.
Jay is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Esther (McDonald) Rea; sons, Jay C. Rea Jr. (Jenny), Brian Rea (Dyanna), Keith Rea (Bridgette); daughters Lori Elliott and Tracy Rea; 10 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren, twin brother John Rea (Judy) and sister, June Brooks (Lew).
He is preceded in death by his parents John and Helen Rea; brother, Dale Rea and sisters, Ann Rea and Janet Rea.
Jay was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and will be missed dearly by his family and friends.
Family and friends may gather at Newcomer Funeral Home-Northwest Chapel, 4150 West Laskey Rd., Toledo 9419-473-0300) on Sunday, February 26, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Funeral Services will begin Monday at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home. Burial will follow at Toledo Memorial Park. After the service, please join us to share stories and food at the Assembly of Christians 3619 W Sterns Rd, Lambertville, MI 48144.
The family would like to thank Hospice of Northwest Ohio for all the wonderful care they provided. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider Hospice of Northwest Ohio, 30000 River Rd Perrysburg, OH 43551.
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