Susan Rhea

Susan Rhea, 47 years young, of Apple Valley, went to be with our Lord Jesus Christ on Sept. 18th, 2010. Susan had been suffering from several illnesses. Our Lord has taken her into his arms and has relieved her of all her pain. Susan was born June 14th, 1963 in Ontario, CA. The Rhea family moved to Apple Valley in 1976. As a graduate of Apple Valley Senior High School in 1981, she kept in touch with many of her classmates, childhood friends from Ontario, and continued to build numerous friendships in the High Desert. Susan will always be remembered for her beautiful smile, her contagious laughter, wit, and her cheerful willingness to help others regardless of her own problems. She will be deeply missed by her husband Brett, family members, and all that loved and knew her. For the past 12 years, Susan was a cosmetologist in Apple Valley. Susan loved to listen, laugh, and learn during her long talks with clients all of whom became her good friends. Susan became a member of AA on June 29th, 1997 and remained sober until her death. Susan was an active and supportive member of AA where she met Brett in 1998 on her 34th birthday. They were married on Oct. 24th, 1999. They both spoke of their meeting each other at the annual AA picnic as the best birthday gift either had received, since it had come from God. Over the years, Susan paid forward the loving support and understanding that she received from AA to countless individuals. Susan was always there for anyone who was in need.
Susan is survived by her husband Brett Ward; her mother and father, Bob and Dorothy Rhea of Apple Valley whom Susan talked with every day; her sister and brother-in-law Sandra and Eddie Phillips, nephews Kyle and Adam of Ontario, CA.; and many beloved uncles, aunts and cousins. Also, Susan's mother–in-law Cassandra "Wynn" Ward; brother-in-law and sister in-law William "Jay" Ward and Alexandra Ward, nieces Sarah and Emily all of San Bernardino, CA; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Jill and Brent McElwain, nephew Devin and niece Carly, of Spring Valley Lake, CA.
Susan wished to hold an informal memorial celebration of her life at Sunset Hills Memorial Park, 24000 Waalew Road in Apple Valley, Ph: (760) 247-0155. Come join us on the terrace from 11:30am to 2:00 pm on Friday, Oct. 1st, 2010 and share remembrances and stories of Susan in your life. Guests are welcome to bring additional food and drinks. Billy Pratt of High Desert Funeral and Cremation can be contacted at (760) 244-1400 for further details. In lieu of flowers, Susan wished donations be made to the Victor Valley Central Office of AA, 18888 Outer Hwy. 18, Suite 107, Apple Valley, CA 92307.