Queen Rhea

Queen Rhea aged 67 ended her battle with leukemia on Jan 19, 2011.  She was living just outside of Denver, but then moved to Phoenix so she could be closer to the hospital and doctor who specialized in her specific cancer that invaded her body six years earlier.  The loving daughter of Mr. Ernest Rhea and Mrs. Michelle Lance survived by twin sons Jason and Joshua and one daughter Audrey.  Her husband of 44 years was Dr. Alexander Macneil, Ph.D.  She was an opera singer for 20 years making her debut with Opera Columbus in Ohio followed by a journey to Spain working with some of the finest musicans in the world.  A member of the Sister of Delta Zeta Sorority in college she remained an active alumnae, donated frequently to the American Cancer Society (as well as participating in its annual Relay for Life events), and a member of The Rocky Mountain Animal Defense.  Everything she participated was done with passion.  "I wouldn't change anything about my life, especially my career" friends would often hear her say, and often familiarly reminding them "It's always a rough start when you're in the music business, but with hard work and motivation, it can take off and you'll never want to do anything else."  Her love of pets (mostly cats) was infectious; her sister chose to pursue a career as a vet.  Happy healthy animals was something the entire family was passionate about. The love, support, and leadership I received from Delta Zeta was something she'll never forget.  Just prior to her death, she was overheard speaking of Delta Zeta "[joining] was the best decision I made in college."  She was always smiling, laughing and selflessly willing to help others.