Rex Ryan

Rex Ryan, age 87, of Longview, Texas, passed away on February 17, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on March 18, 1938 in Anderson, Indiana, Rex was the son of Marjorie Begley Ryan and J. Wesley Ryan. Rex was a strong, steady leader and a stoic role model whose quiet strength shaped the lives of those who loved him. Detail-oriented and hardworking, he took pride in providing for his family. He was determined, kind, and generous-deeply proud of where he came from, what he accomplished, and most of all, his family. He grew up in Anderson, IN and Lima, OH and graduated from Lima Senior High School.

Rex completed an early apprenticeship and went on to become a mason, starting his first business, a masonry company, when he was just 20 years old. He moved to Texas in the 80s, operating a brick laying company and building steakhouses and Walmarts across the region. Rex later started a masonry foam insulation business, operating in multiple states in the south and southwest.

On April 9, 1982, he married Barbara Davis, and together they built a life centered around the love for their family. Rex and Barbara made a perfect pair, partnering together to grow their business and support their family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandpa, papaw, and great grandpa who always prioritized gathering his family to eat well and laugh together.

He had a lifelong love of cars, hot rods, and racing, cheering on his favorite drivers as they sped around the track. He and Barbara delighted in collecting and discovering hidden treasures at estate sales. At home, he enjoyed cooking, reading, and tending his garden. He took genuine interest in the passions of his children and grandchildren, using them as a way to connect and build lasting bonds. Though he was known for his calm wisdom and sharp wit, it was his sense of peace, respect for the world, and unwavering love for his family that will be remembered most.

He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara, his sister Sharon Jarvis, his 7 children: Doug (Lucy) Ryan, David Ryan, Drew Ryan, Lane (Audrey) Renfro, Kelly (Gary) Harrison, Mia Ryan (Jamie), and Holly (David) Coker; his 13 grandkids: Chris (Becky) Ryan, Emily (Ben) Hoffeld, Taylor (Michelle) Ryan, Alli (Adam) Chance, Kyle (Kristin) Ryan, Matthew (Victoria) Renfro, Nick (Reyna) Ryan, Noah (Carly) Ryan, Colton Coker, Olivia Renfro, Annie Renfro, Callahan Coker, Londyn Coker; and his 11 great grandkids.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marjorie Cade and J. Wesley Ryan, his brothers Thomas Ryan, Richard Ryan, and John Ryan and his daughter Jennifer Renfro.

A visitation and service will be held on March 6, 2026 at 10:00 am at Rosewood Park located at 1884 F.M. 1844 Longview, TX 75605.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who loved him.