Chrissi Callaghan Rhea, a pioneering mortgage banking leader and co-founder of Mortgage Investors Group (MIG), passed away on Nov. 8 at Turkey Creek Medical Center in Knoxville, surrounded by her beloved family.
As one of the few women in mortgage banking at the time, Ms. Rhea shattered barriers and set a powerful example for women in a male-dominated industry. Known for her bold leadership and unwavering dedication, she built a legacy of innovation, compassionate service, and a commitment to affordable housing.
Ms. Rhea was born on Aug. 14, 1951, in Oak Ridge and graduated from Oak Ridge High School. She embraced her family’s values of service and community impact, instilled by her father, Frank Callaghan, a passionate advocate for affordable housing.
In 1989, Ms. Rhea co-founded MIG in Knoxville with a mission to build an employee-centered, customer-focused company. Under her leadership, MIG grew from seven employees in one office to more than 400 employees across the Southeast. She also served on the boards of the national Mortgage Bankers Association and the Tennessee Housing Development Authority.
Ms. Rhea’s warmth extended far beyond her professional life. Known for her magnetic personality, she loved opening her home and welcoming everyone with open arms.
Ms. Rhea and longtime friend Russell Beatty shared a love for travel, immersing themselves in the diverse cultures and experiences of the world. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy, and she was their biggest cheerleader, always first to celebrate their achievements and offer unwavering support.
Ms. Rhea was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Lois Callaghan of Oak Ridge. She is survived by her daughter, Andrea Reyes (Tim) of Knoxville; son, Kevin Rhea (Pam) of Knoxville; life partner, Russell Beatty; siblings, Patti Callaghan of Newburgh, Ind., Susan Callaghan, and Kathy Callaghan (Wayne Edwards) of Pittsboro, N.C., and brother, Kevin Callaghan (Deborah) of Plano, Texas; her adored grandchildren, Olivia Rhea, Patrick Rhea, and Evan Reyes; beloved cousins, Tom and Joyce Callaghan of Boston; former husband, John Rhea, of Knoxville; and several nieces and nephews.
A funeral Mass for Ms. Rhea was held on Nov. 26 at St. Mary Church in Oak Ridge. A private family burial service followed. The family requests that donations in Ms. Rhea’s memory be made to Breast Connect (www.breastconnect.org) or a charity of choice.