Peter Henry Rea who departed this world on June 13, 2026, at home in Taney County
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Peter Henry Rea who departed this world on June 13, 2026, at home in Taney County after a courageous battle with dementia. Born on January 28, 1936, in Hilda, Missouri, Peter lived a life rich with purpose, warmth and unwavering dedication to his family, community and country.
Peter was the youngest child of Cyrus Frank Rea and Nellie Chadborne Smith Rea, both of whom predeceased him. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Marybeth Rea Craig (James Lee Craig), Barbara Jean Rea Rhodes (Charles C. Rhodes), Doris Marie Rea Hagar (James A. Hagar), and John Cyrus Rea (Velma Blankenship Rea).
He is survived by his children Victoria Jeanette Hoffman (Greg) of Ozark, Missouri; Teresa Kathleen Schwartz (Barry)of Branson, Missouri; Cyrus Franklin Rea Il (Brenda) of San Antonio, Texas; Matthew Peter Rea (Kori) of Hawaii; and Elizabeth Dawn Rootz (Matthew) of Nixa, Missouri; eleven grandchildren, one great grandson and one on the way, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Peter leaves behind his wife of 38 years, Darlene Rea, who stood by his side with unwavering commitment. He passed away on the date of their wedding anniversary; a marriage for which local artist John Logan drew the invitations and guests were subpoenaed to the wedding.
After graduating from Branson High School in 1954, he attended the University of Missouri, where he earned his law degree and was awarded the Constitutional Law Prize. Peter’s father and son, Cyprus also graduated from University of Missouri.
His academic and intellectual pursuits were matched by his service to his country; proudly serving as Second Lieutenant on active duty with the United States Marine Corps and continuing in the reserves, leaving service as Captain Peter Henry Rea.
He practiced law in his hometown with a heart full of compassion and a spirit of generosity, known for accepting unconventional forms of payment — ranging from chickens, donkeys, and pies to cattle and horses — he ensured justice was accessible to all. His legal acumen was matched by his dedication to public service, serving as the city attorney for both Branson and Hollister. He was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, served as president of the Taney County Bar, admitted to the United States Supreme Court Bar, was elected to four consecutive terms as Taney County Prosecutor, and later served as Associate Circuit Judge. There, he notably established a night court to accommodate those unable to afford to miss work for legal proceedings. Endowed with a quick wit, keen insight, clever sense of humor, and wisdom ~ he never assumed he was more important than the folks in his home county.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Snapp Bearden Forsyth Chapel, Forsyth, Missouri from 6 pm to 8 pm and a service to honor and celebrate his remarkable life will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 2 pm at First Baptist Church, Forsyth, Missouri. Interment will follow at Edwards Family Cemetery in Kirbyville, Missouri with military honors.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the community for its support and kindness during this difficult time. His legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will be cherished in the hearts of his family and friends.