Rex Bennett Brown

Rex Bennett Brown, a beloved educator, coach, and U.S. Air Force veteran, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024, at the Missouri Veterans Home in Mount Vernon. He was 89 years old. Born November 24, 1935, in Harrison, Arkansas, Rex was the son of Clarence J. Brown and Winnie Dee (Trammel) Brown. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Connell Jean Brown and Louis Glenn Brown. A gifted athlete, Rex’s passion for sports was evident from a young age. He graduated from Alpena High School in 1953, where he earned All-State honors in basketball. He went on to attend the University of Arkansas, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1963. While at Arkansas, Rex continued to shine as a basketball player and became part of the university’s basketball team. Rex’s service to his country as a member of the United States Air Force during the Korean War further exemplified his commitment to excellence and leadership. He served in both Japan and Korea as a sergeant and was also a member of the All-Pacific Region basketball team for the Armed Forces. After his military service, Rex dedicated himself to education and coaching. His six years as a high school coach and teacher in Farmington and Camden, Arkansas, saw his teams compile a strong 125-60 record. Rex’s impact on young athletes was immeasurable, shaping both their athletic abilities and their character. In 1969, Rex earned a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Arkansas, before commencing an impactful career at Southwest Baptist University (SBU) in Bolivar, Missouri. He began his 28 years at the university as its Athletic Director and Chair of the Health and Physical Education Department. During his tenure, Rex was instrumental in the establishment of SBU’s football program, and he played a pivotal role in the school’s transition from NAIA to NCAA Division II, as well as its entry into the MIAA conference. Rex also spent six years as the Head Baseball Coach at SBU, mentoring countless athletes both on and off the field. His dedication to the university and its students left a lasting legacy that endures to this day. Outside of his professional life, Rex was deeply involved in his community. He was an active member and deacon at First Baptist Church in Bolivar, where he served for many years. He also volunteered with the local Red Cross and the Polk County Health Board, always eager to contribute to the welfare of others. Rex is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Marjorie Ann (Chappell) Brown; his two sons, Robert Kyle Brown and Scott Alan Brown, and their wives, Dr. Jane Brown and Susie Brown; five grandchildren, Mikail Cangelosi, Mallory Brown, Patrick Brown, Cody Brown, and Jack Brown; and one great-grandchild, Benjamin Cangelosi. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members, all of whom will remember him for his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to his family and community. In his 89 years, Rex Brown made a profound impact on those who knew him, and his legacy as a coach, educator, and mentor will not soon be forgotten. He was a man of integrity, compassion, and devotion, and he will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Funeral services for Rex will be held Friday, December 20, 2024, at the First Baptist Church in Bolivar starting at 10:00 A.M. Visitation will be Thursday evening December 19, 2024, from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar. Burial with military honors will take place immediately following the service Friday at Greenwood Cemetery in Bolivar.

Rex Bennett Brown

November 24, 1935 - December 14, 2024