Rex J. Brown, age 89, passed away peacefully at his home early Wednesday morning, December 18, 2024.

      Born on July 16, 1935, in Clay County, he was the son of William Ricie and Lois M. (Spicer) Brown.  On November 28, 1960, Rex married the love of his life, Betty L. Spitzner, in Clay County.  They shared 59 wonderful years of marriage until her passing on July 30, 2020.

      Rex proudly served in the U.S. Army, spending part of his service stationed in Germany.  Over the years, he worked in various roles, including as a truck driver, in the oil fields, and as an employee of Valley Steel.

      An avid gardener, Rex was especially known for his flourishing vegetable garden and his famous turnips, which he often generously shared with family, friends, and neighbors.  His kind and giving nature extended to many acts of helping others when he could.  He was also passionate about racing and enjoyed attending races at Daytona on multiple occasions.

      Above all, Rex was a loving dad and grandpa who cherished his family deeply.  He was a devoted husband to his late wife, Betty, and a man of strong Christian faith.

      He is survived by 5 children: Nancy (Wes) Cochran of Terre Haute, Indiana; and Tammy Steward, Hank Brown, Julie Pride, and Kevin (Patricia) Brown, who are all of Flora; as well as 13 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great-grandchildren.  He is also survived by his sister: Geraldine (Bus) Forman of Sailor Springs; a sister-in-law: Joan (Bill) Pearce of Flora; a brother-in-law: Mike (Connie) Spitzner of Clay City; a son-in-law: Stuart Hamilton of Flora; as well as many nieces and nephews.

      He was preceded in passing by his wife: Betty Brown; 3 children: Steve Hamilton, Tressa Hamilton, and Jeff Brown; 2 granddaughters: Chasity (Samuel) Vaughn and Angela Jordan O’Dell; a son-in-law: Kevin Pride; 2 sisters: Annabelle Barnard and Judy C. Powless; and a brother: Donnie Brown.

      A memorial visitation will be held from 10 until 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Calvary Baptist Church in Flora.  Beginning at 11 a.m., military funeral honors will be presented, and a memorial ceremony officiated by Pastor Mike Evans will follow.  Arrangements are by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Memorial donations are suggested to Clay County Hospice.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com