Rex Cole

Rex Cole, 76, of Gastonia, NC, passed away on November 12th, 2025, peacefully in his sleep.

Rex was born on January 19, 1949, in Oneida NY the son of Victor Cole and Kathleen Glessing.

Rex graduated from Oneida High School. He then attended East Carolina University, where he studied with renowned saxophone teacher James Houlik. Rex later received a scholarship to study at the NC School of the Arts in Winston-Salem, N.C., where he found his passion in playing the saxophone. After college Rex settled in North Carolina and quickly put his musical talents into action, bringing joy to many people through his music. Rex traveled the Southeast playing in bands such as "The Entertainers", "The Catalina's" and "Smitty Flynn Band". Rex loved trail walking through nature, reading, attending his grandchildren's events and sitting down to have meaningful conversations with friends and family. Rex had many interests, but there was nothing he loved more than his family.

Remaining to cherish Rex's memory are his children, Rachel Brooks and Heather Ganous; grandchildren, Grace, Ava, Mia and Cannon; Brother, Nick; Sister, Diana, and Son's-in-Law, Phillip and Greg.

Preceding Rex in death are parents, Victor and Kathleen and Stepparents, Ben and Doris.

Visitation will be held November 20, 2025, at 5:00pm with a Memorial Service following 5:30pm – 6:30pm. Visitation and Memorial Service will be held at New Covenant Church in Mount Holly, NC.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared online at: www.greenefuneral.com.