Wisconsin Rapids, WI – Tami Rhea, a longtime employee at the Butterfly Restaurant and a cherished member of the Wisconsin Rapids community, passed away on September 20, 2024, at the age of 63. Tami, born on July 11, 1961, to James E. and Helene L. (Schumacher) Timm, worked at the Butterfly Restaurant for over two decades, where she became known for her kindness, dedication, and passion for serving others.
Tami Rhea passed away at UnityPoint Meriter Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. She was widely beloved for her warm personality, especially by her restaurant customers, many of whom felt a deep connection to her. Her talent for cooking, especially her renowned macaroni and potato salads, will be remembered fondly.
Her colleagues at the Butterfly Restaurant shared their heartfelt condolences on Facebook, expressing how deeply Tami touched their lives. One post from the restaurant said, "Over the weekend we lost Tami Rhea, a very special woman who dedicated over 20 years to us. She cared deeply about everyone around her. We will truly miss you."
Many took to Facebook to share their memories and express their grief:
- Tomchris Grennan commented, “We loved having Tami wait on us. She made us feel special and like old friends. May God comfort her family.”
- Judy Unger Harrison wrote, “We Loved Tami, such a great friend. Prayers and hugs to her family. She will be missed.”
- Lexi Martin said, “Took me under her wing, and I’m forever grateful for the time with her.”
- Kimberly Loyd-Cochrane shared, “She was an amazing person! Always a friendly face and so very kind and funny. Deepest condolences to her family.”
- Lea Schinzer added, “She was a jewel….our Tammy.”
Tami is survived by her two children, Samuel Rhea and Raeanne Boyer, her two sisters, Suann Wells and Karen Collins, and five beloved grandchildren.
A memorial service for Tami will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Unger-Horner Funeral Home in Rochelle, Illinois. The funeral service will follow on Friday, September 27, at 11:00 a.m. at Esmond United Methodist Church, Esmond, Illinois. Interment will take place at Lawnridge Cemetery in Rochelle.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Esmond United Methodist Church or Serenity Hospice and Home in her honor.