Community gathers to celebrate life of 2-year-old Olly Rea

MILLERTON — More than 150 family members, friends and neighbors gathered at Faith Bible Chapel on Monday to celebrate the life of 2-year-old Olly Rea, whose brief life was remembered through stories, laughter and faith just over a week since his tragic death.

The celebration took place at the same Silver Mountain Road church where Olly died July 25 after falling into a septic tank on the property following a wedding reception. Despite an extensive emergency response, he could not be saved. The accident stunned the close-knit community and prompted an outpouring of support for the Rea family.

The service reflected the family’s wish that the day focus on Olly’s happiness. Rather than wearing traditional black, most attendees came dressed in bright colors and casual clothing. People of all ages filled the chapel, exchanging hugs, condolences and memories before the service began.

The church was decorated with tributes to Olly’s favorite movies and characters, including Toy Story, Bluey, Lightning McQueen and Mickey Mouse. A long buffet, made possible through donations from local restaurants, church members and other supporters, stretched along one side of the room.

Pastor Bill Mayhew led the service. Floral wreaths and photo collages featuring Olly and his family flanked the pulpit. Among those in attendance were Olly’s siblings– Cory, 7, and 10-month-old Levi — who remained by their parents’ side throughout the service.

“When you look at those pictures, you’ll notice three things about Olly,” Mayhew said. “Either he’s smiling, he’s eating, or he has a ponderous look on his face. Because as a two-year-old, there’s a lot to wonder about in the world.”

Mayhew shared Scripture and memories of a little boy who delighted in splashing in the water, eating the frosting off cupcakes and stopping whatever he was doing whenever he heard an airplane so he could search the sky.

“Although his life lasted only two short years,” Mayhew said, “Olly’s life was rich in laughter, adventures, faith and unconditional love.”

Following his remarks, Mayhew invited those gathered to share their own memories.

Olly’s mother, Darryl Sue Rea, thanked everyone who had supported the family.

“We all loved Olly, and while we will miss him in our lifetime, we gave him one heck of a lifetime while he lived,” she said. “You were all a part of making him this beautiful, happy, smiling boy.”

Olly’s father, Johnathan Rea, said becoming a parent had changed him and that his son inspired him every day “to be an example for all children.”

Throughout the service, speakers returned to the same theme: despite his brief life, Olly left an outsized impact on those who knew him through his curiosity, smile and joyful spirit.

Mayhew closed the celebration by asking those gathered to keep Olly in their hearts in the days and weeks to come.

Additional reporting by Eloise Pickering and Christian Murray.