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Marianna Rains Rhea was born on January 20, 1944, in Marshalltown, Iowa, and passed peacefully from this life on June 16, 2026.
Marianna grew up on a dairy farm, where she helped care for her four brothers and one sister. She graduated from New Providence High School in 1962 and went on to attend William Penn College, where she met her future husband, Wayne Rhea. The two were married on July 12, 1964, in New Providence, Iowa.
After several moves while Wayne completed graduate studies, they made their home in Shawnee, Oklahoma. There, Marianna earned her Bachelor of Science degree in History from William Penn College while Wayne began his career as a professor.
Marianna's greatest calling was caring for others. She first devoted herself to raising her son, Matthew, and daughter, Heather. Later, she shared her gifts through her work as a preschool teacher and director, and eventually as a special needs teacher aide. Her kindness, patience, and servant's heart touched countless children and families through the years.
After 42 years in Shawnee, Marianna and Wayne retired to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where they faithfully attended the activities and events of their beloved grandchildren. Family was the center of Marianna's life, and she treasured every moment spent with them.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Marion and Mildred Rains; her brothers, Joe Rains and Dan Rains; and her great-granddaughter, Sophia Wren Streich.
Marianna is survived by her husband of 62 years, Wayne Rhea; her son, Matthew Rhea (Julie) of Fishers, Indiana; her daughter, Heather Rhea Streich (Tracy) of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and her cherished grandchildren, Lydia and Margaret Rhea, Ethan Streich (Rae), Landon Streich (Macy), and Hadley Streich Karhu (Brett). She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Nash Streich and Emma Streich.
She is further survived by her brothers, John Rains (Ann) and Rich Rains (Judy); her sister, Cyndi; and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Marianna will be remembered for her steadfast faith, gentle spirit, deep love for family, and lifelong dedication to caring for others. A memorial service is planned for July 11 at 11 AM at First Baptist Church Tulsa. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Oklahoma Baptist University.
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