James "Bud" Elmer Rhea Jr.

James E. Rhea Jr, known as “Bud Rhea,” 89 of Kings Mountain, NC passed away on December 10, 2025, at Atrium Health Cleveland in Shelby, NC from complications from a fall. He was born January 25, 1936, in Cleveland County, NC, son of the late James E. and Madge Wright Rhea and was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Deloris “Tencie” Eubanks Rhea. Bud was a loving family man and friend to many. After serving his country in the U.S. Coast Guard, he worked in Human Resources, mostly in textiles, for 35 years. He was an avid golfer and dabbled in woodworking, carving, and clockmaking. He and Tencie were deeply rooted at “Hickory Hill,” their land and home for over 60 years. He was a lifelong active member of Central Methodist Church in Kings Mountain.

SURVIVORS: Sons: Scott Rhea of Holden Beach, NC and Monty Rhea of Kings Mountain, NC

Daughters: Stacie Rhea (Glenn Carroll) and Julie Turner (Jeff Turner), all of Kings Mountain, NC

Grandchildren: Dane and Skyler Rhea, Clinton and Wesley Turner, and Tucker Carroll.

Great-Grandchild: Karmin Rhea

Sister-in-law: Beth Eubanks

Nieces: Kelly Jones and Susan Falls

CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICE: Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Central Methodist Church in Kings Mountain with Pastor Perry Hines officiating.

VISITATION: Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM prior to the service at Central Methodist Church CAC.

INTERMENT: Private family Interment at Mountain Rest Cemetery

MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Central Methodist Church of Kings Mountain, NC, or Hospice of Cleveland County.

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA