Eileen Rose (Rhea) Carmichael, 99, of South Webster, Ohio, went home to be with the Lord on March 17, 2026, at Meadow Grove Transitional Care in Grove City, Ohio.
Born August 1, 1926, in Cove, Ohio, Eileen was the daughter of the late Delbert and Mary Rhea. She lived a long and meaningful life rooted in faith, family, and community.
Eileen was a devoted member of Grace United Methodist Church for many years and later attended South Webster Community Church. Her faith guided her life and was reflected in her kindness, quiet strength, and the love she shared with those around her.
She found her greatest joy in her family. Whether gathered around the table, sharing stories, or simply spending time together, Eileen treasured every moment. She was an avid reader and had a gentle, steady presence that brought comfort to those who knew her.
She leaves behind a loving family who will carry her memory forward: her daughter, Pamela Jean Mahan; her son, Gary Dean (Denise) Carmichael; her grandchildren, Chris Hightower, Luke (Ally) Carmichael, and Drew (Lauren) Carmichael; and her six great-grandchildren, Larryn and Tessa Hightower, and Cru, Selah, Rowan, and Wren Carmichael.
She is also survived by her sister, Sue Waugh of Jackson; her brothers, Norman (Flora) Rhea and Floyd (Penny) Rhea, both of Jackson; as well as many nieces and nephews who were dear to her.
Eileen was reunited with her beloved husband, Paul Creighton Carmichael, following his passing in June 1999. She was also preceded in death by her sister Doris Ward and her husband Everett; her brothers Oscar Rhea and his wife Carolyn, and Charles Rhea; her infant sister Carol Rhea; and her brother-in-law Dave Waugh.
A proud member of her community, Eileen was involved in the South Webster Betterment Club, was a charter member of the South Webster Cotillion Club, and participated in the South Webster Community Church PALS. She graduated from Jackson High School and Portsmouth Interstate Business College, and throughout her life worked faithfully at Ohio Power Company, the Portsmouth Employment Office, Williams Shoe Company, Kuhner’s Restaurant, Simmering’s Market, and later retired from Oak Hill Hospital.
Eileen will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her unwavering love for her family, and the quiet way she made the world around her better. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the family she cherished so deeply.
Funeral Service will be held Saturday, March 21, 2026, 1:00 PM at D.W. Swick & Son Funeral and Cremation Services in South Webster with Merit Smith officiatying. Interment will follow at South Webster Cemetery. Calling hours will be from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM prior to services.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Eileen’s memory to South Webster Community Church.
Online condolences and memories may be shared at DWSwickFuneralHome.com
