Rhea Sandra Lounsbury

Rhea Sandra Lounsbury November 17, 1953 – June 11, 2026

Not long ago, Rhea said, “I’ll be leaving you soon.” On June 11, 2026, she was called to her Heavenly Father and reunited with Seth, Scottie, Mom, Dad, family, and friends. She knew.

Helena and Gottfried Hofmeister brought Rhea into this world on November 17, 1953, in American Falls, Idaho. She spent her childhood on the Hofmeister farm in Pleasant Valley, where she learned many life lessons. She always told Gary and the boys it was just “farm stuff.” From her mother—her mentor, teacher, and, most importantly, Mom. Her Dad spoiled her. Rhea learned how to be a farmer’s daughter. She was the third of three children born to Gottfried and Helena, and the only girl after brothers Carl and Gilbert. Rhea loved her Canadian family. Visits were few and far between but always filled with fond memories and laughter.

Rhea’s faith was always important to her, beginning at St. John’s Lutheran Church, where she was baptized, confirmed, married, and now celebrated. By the grace of God, Rhea lives on.

Rhea was involved in 4-H from a young age and excelled in sewing, cooking, and many other projects. She later became a 4-H leader for her sons and many others, teaching cooking and Know Your Government, including chaperoning trips to Washington, D.C. She was also a Cub Scout den mother during Seth’s early years. Her fondest memories were helping children and watching her sons play sports.

Rhea attended American Falls schools and graduated with honors from American Falls High School in 1972. She excelled as a cheerleader, participated in student government debate, and other clubs. Most important, though, were the friendships she made, relationships that became lifelong. Rhea never missed a class reunion.

Although Rhea knew Gary from Sunday school as a child, Rhea and Gary Lounsbury began their 56-year journey together in high school. They started dating when she was a sophomore and Gary was a junior, and they were married on August 19, 1972—soulmates from the beginning. Rhea and Gary were blessed with three beautiful children: Seth Ryan, Scott David, and Chad Aaron, who were her legacies.

Rhea worked for The Power County Press, as a grade school aide, and the Soil Conservation Service before the Assessor’s Office. Across Power County and later Twin Falls County, she built a 28-year career as a GIS mapper. She loved her job and enjoyed her coworkers.

Gary’s job took Rhea to Twin Falls in 1998, where she made many new friends and experiences while never forgetting her roots. Rhea loved reading, gardening, and enjoying a small glass of wine. She spent hours in her backyard, which many loved and admired. She cherished time with family, friends, and her dogs. Rhea had a sixth sense when it came to her pups; they became her kids once Seth and Chad left home.

Throughout the years, Rhea and Gary traveled with close, caring friends, but she loved solo trips with her love, Gary. One favorite spot was Depoe Bay, Oregon, followed closely by wherever her boys took her. Her sons loved her dearly and always looked up to her for guidance—but most importantly, for her hugs.

Rhea is survived by her husband, Gary; sons Chad (Nicole) and Nick (Allison) Magnuson; grandchildren Maddux Lounsbury, Bria Lounsbury, Josh Stanko, Ellie Stanko, Keagin Hackett, Alex Hackett, Nieko Hackett, Hayden Dudley, Asher Magnuson, and Isabel Magnuson; brothers Carl Hofmeister and Gilbert Hofmeister (Jolene); brothers-in-law John (Eldonna), Bob (Loa), and Alan (Cathy) Lounsbury; and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her sons, Seth Ryan and Scott David; her parents, Gottfried and Helena Hofmeister; her in-laws, Carlos and Louise Lounsbury; and numerous uncles and aunts.

This world will miss Rhea’s infectious smile, her laugh, those eyes, and most of all, her way of making everyone feel special. She is so loved. 56 years of “Promises made, promises kept”

A service will be held on July 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in American Falls.

A life celebration will be held on July 12, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Rhea and Gary’s Twin Falls home.

Thank you for your caring hearts – the Lounsbury and Hofmeister Family