Rex Wilson

 

Rex Leland Wilson, 87, passed away on February 1, 2025 at St. Luke Living Center in Marion, Kansas. Rex was born on November 14, 1937 in rural Gove County Kansas in his parental home to Earl and Consuella Wilson. He was the fifth of six children.

Rex and his siblings attended a one room school taught by his Mother and Father. He graduated from Dighton High School in 1955 and entered Ft. Hays State College the same year. Rex was a member of the Ft. Hays Track and Field team and was a four-year letterman in javelin. In 1958 he qualified for the NAIA National track meet in San Diego and placed third in the javelin. In his senior year he qualified for the NAIA in Sioux Falls, SD and placed second. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Math Education from Fort Hays State in 1960.

Rex married Margaret Macy on August 7,1960 in Hays, KS. Following their marriage they moved to Isabel, KS where Rex began his teaching and coaching career. Their two children, Kevin and Lisa, were born during that time. In 1964 they moved to Marion where Rex continued to teach and coach track and cross country. Rex retired in 1999 after a 39-year career.

Rex was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Lisa, granddaughter Vivian, and all his siblings. Rex is survived by his wife Margaret, son Kevin and daughter-in-law Janet, son-in-law Brent Ragsdale and his wife Patti, bonus son Kevin McGahee and his wife Loraine; grandchildren Miranda Ritter (Dave), Dylan Wilson (Gabby), Blaine Ragsdale (Kristin), Logan Ragsdale (Shanna), and Jeremy Ragsdale (Megan); great grandchildren Elias Ritter, Lewis Ragsdale, Florence Wilson, Hayes Ritter and one on the way.

Rex’s childhood was filled with the simpler joys of a rural life, where the values were traditional, the pace of life was slow, and where friendliness, courtesy and helpfulness was practiced. His life was defined by his steady presence, reliability, selflessness and deep care for those around him. He raised his children and taught his students by example. They learned from him the art and value of forgiveness and honesty.

Rex took seriously the word of God, to care for the earth and all that is provided for us. He lived conservatively and strived to leave the land better for others to follow. He worked tirelessly for his church and his career. He spent long “after”

hours helping students – math students and athletes. He worked hard, loved greatly and enjoyed life.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 15 at Valley United Methodist Church, Marion, Kansas at 1pm. A private family burial is planned.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Rex’s memory to Valley United Methodist Church – 300 Santa Fe St, Marion, KS 66861 Or MAC/Coaches Scholarship – PO Box, 153 Marion, KS 66861.