Nila Marie Hudnall, 84, known to family and friends as "Rea" passed away on Sunday, April 7, 2024, in Papillion, NE. Rea was born on Tuesday, May 9, 1939 in Colorado to the late Virginia Perkins Keim and Huber Keim. She is preceded in death by her husband, Bennett H. Hudnall; two sisters, Von Rainey and Jackie Hester and two brothers, Jim Keim and Art Keim.

After graduating in 1957 from Verdugo Hills High School in Tujunga, CA, Rea worked as an administrative assistant. Rea married Bennett H. Hudnall on June 23, 1958. They lived in Southern California for many years, later moving to Surprise, AZ.

Rea managed their rental properties and worked as a tax preparer during tax season. She had many hobbies and interests. She and Benny enjoyed camping, boating and fishing. They traveled the entire United States and abroad to many different countries. She often made a scrapbook, detailing their trips, which were interesting and sometimes humorous. They took annual trips to Nebraska, Kansas and Kentucky to visit family.

Rea's interest included shopping at thrift stores where she looked for treasure's and taking scenic bus trips to Cliff Castle Casino. Rea was exceptionally talented and crafty. She had a passion for crocheting. She made gorgeous afghans, pillow blankets, slippers and dolls. She often gifted these to family and friends to enjoy. Rea was a talented painter as well. Her art works ranged from beach scapes to portraits which were displayed in their home. Creating knickknacks such as acrylic grapes and ceramics were among her favorite crafts.

Rea was a wonderful cook. She always said she didn't like to cook but it didn't show as the food was always delicious. She was known for her signature dessert, date bars. We loved them and enjoyed them when we visited.

In later years, the local Denny's restaurant in Surprise, AZ became their favorite place to eat. They became friends with the staff there and enjoyed their friendship. The staff knew they would be sharing a meal, eggs over easy, pancakes and crisp bacon with a cup of coffee. We always knew where we would be going for breakfast when we visited.

Rea was a compassionate, nurturing person. She had a big heart and was always quick to help anyone. She had a knack for making others feel special. Rea moved to Papillion, NE to be closer to family after Benny passed. She said she enjoyed being closer to family but did not love the frigid weather.

Rea is survived by her brother, Dale Keim (Sharon), many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral service will be held at 12 pm on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at Mt. Pisgah Methodist Church, 10741 Richardsville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42101 with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am at the church.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Mt. Pisgah cemetery trust fund c/o Benji Hudnall, 972 Jr. Cole Road, Bowling Green, KY 42101.

Johnson Vaughn Phelps Funeral Home have been entrusted with arrangements.