Billie 'Bill' George Rea

Billie "Bill" George Rea, 77 of Odessa, Tx entered into the eternal rest of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on September 14, 2025, at 1:06 PM, Sunday morning at Lamun, Lusk, Sanchez Veteran's Home in Big Spring, Tx. Though his earthly journey has ended, his destination was a mansion in glory, prepared for him by the Savior he faithfully served.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM, Friday, September 19, 2025, at First Baptist Church, Odessa, 701 N. Lee. Interment will be at a later date.

Bill was born November 19, 1947, in Ranger, Tx to Rupert W. (J.R.") Rea and Dollie Marie Rea. From an early age he was shaped by faith, family, and a strong work ethic-values that guided a life of devotion, service, and love. On March 10, 1967, Bill married the love of his life, Shirley Martin, in Andrews, Tx. Their marriage of 58½ years was a testimony of faithfulness and devotion, weathering every storm, instilling in them a love for God, faith, and family and celebrating every joy together. They raised two children together, Janelle Rea Bermea and Jeff Rea instilling in them a love for God, faith, and family. Bill proudly served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam war as a 2nd Class Petty Officer special weapons gunners' mate with a top-secret clearance. Stationed aboard USS Wasp CVS 18 in Rhode Island he learned discipline, teamwork, and resilience-qualities that shaped his life and service to others. Bill graduated with an associate degree in Petroleum Technology from Odessa Junior College. He worked for 43 years as an Engineering Specialist in the oil field. He was directly responsible for automating pump off control readings and tank gauging through satellite contact, an innovation that advanced the industry and contributed to patents still valued today. Respected for his ingenuity and his integrity, he was admired as much for his leadership and for his character.

Bill is survived by his wife, Shirley Martin Rea; daughter, Janelle Rea Bermea; son, Jeffrey Rea and Stacie Huff (fiancée); grandchildren, Macie Owen, Blake Beal, Dustin Rea, Cameron Rea and their spouses; great grandchildren, Lilliana, Riley, and Emma Lynn Rea and Violet Beal. Bill was known as "Pappy" to his grandchildren and great grands. He found joy in teaching life lessons, sharing his love of music, and modeling a steady faith. To them he was more than a father and grandfather; he was a source of security, laughter, and unconditional love. He is also survived by his brothers, Glenn, (wife Carrie), Tommy (wife Jeri), Terry (wife Patricia). He loved them deeply, and their bond was one of loyalty, respect, and shared faith.

Though his absence is deeply felt, his family rejoices in the assurance of 2 Timothy 4:7-8 "I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith". In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Gideon's for Bibles, Charlie Kirk Turning Point, Alzheimer's  Assoc., or Diabetes Foundation. The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Home Hospice of Big Spring and staff, Lamun, Lusk Sanchez Veterans home and staff, and Senior Adult Class of First Baptist Church, Odessa.