Printed January 5, 2024
Berlin
Rare Irish Wilds She passed away in the arms of her husband, Tony, at home on Wednesday, December 20, 2023.
She was born in 1939 in Milford, Delaware, the daughter of the late Fred and Rosetta Jester Ireland. She grew up in Ellendale, Delaware, where her father was a rural mail carrier.
Mr. Rhea graduated from Milford High School in 1957 and remained connected to many of his former classmates. During her high school years, she was a multi-sport athlete, student body president, and representative of Girls State and Girls Nation.
She then attended Western Maryland University (McDaniel) on a Methodist scholarship and continued to excel academically and athletically. She was chair of the Judiciary Committee, recognized on the Who’s Who of American Universities, and was voted Homecoming Queen and May Court member.
After college, she and Tony married and eventually lived in New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and Florida.
Initially, she worked for the New Jersey Employment Agency, but after relocating to Virginia, she had a long and successful career in real estate with Wellborn, Chimney House, and Long & Foster. She has won many awards for her real estate production and service and has inspired her two sons to pursue careers in her real estate industry.
Leah continued to love sports throughout her life, especially golf, and was proud of the hole-in-one she achieved at the age of 80.
Leah was a quietly kind, strong, and godly woman who raised generations of children and grandchildren in her image. She never met a stranger to her, and she loved everyone who signed on to her unconditionally and without judgment.
She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Tony; her sister, Fredetta McCormick; her two sons, Kevin Wiles (Tracy) and Jamie Wiles (Holly); her daughter, Kelly Loiacono (John); and her nine grandchildren, Johnny Loiacono, Billy Wiles, Joey Loiacono, Taylor Wiles, Kami Wiles, Sienna Wiles, Samantha Wiles, Eddie Loiacono and Tanner Wiles. She is also survived by two nieces, Kathy McCormick and Siobhan Christiansen. and her nephew Jim McCormick.
A memorial service was held on January 4th at Bethany United Methodist Church in Berlin. Visitation began at 11 a.m. and the service was held at 11:30. All were immediately invited to join the family for a reception and fellowship.
Letters of condolence may be sent to the family through Burbage Funeral Home, burbagefuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethany United Methodist Church, Berlin. PayPal: Berlin Bethany United Methodist Church.