Rex Allen Andrews Sr.

Rex Allen Andrews Sr., 69, of Front Royal, Virginia, died Monday, October 14, 2024 after a courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis. He passed peacefully at the home he shared with his loving wife and best friend, Carolyn "Tootie" Santmyers-Andrews and faithful companions Evie and C.C. in Rileyville, VA.

Rex was born March 5, 1955, to the late Giles Edward Andrews and Catherine Fogle Andrews. Upon retiring from Costco, Rex began doing what he loved most – being a farmer, and self-proclaimed "cattle master".

Rex lived a very fulfilled and blessed life. He loved the outdoors and spent most of his life as an avid hunter. Some of his favorite memories included the many hunting trips he would take "out west" with his brother and best friends. He would also haunt me tonight if I didn't mention that he was once featured in Whitetail Magazine for one of his record kills! When he wasn't messing around outdoors, Rex could be found watching one of his many (and I mean many) grandchildren playing sports. He loved his family more than anything in this world and he never missed an opportunity to let them know. He spread humor and joy everywhere he went and would often leave you with an anecdote that would make you laugh, even hours later. Rex loved watching sports and just one day before he passed, excitedly watched Kyle Larson win at Charlotte, and Dallas get beat at home! (PS- Jerry Jones, he says you should pay Dak more money! That's the problem!).

He is sorrowfully survived by his wife, Carolyn "Tootie"; his daughter, Shannon Andrews of Front Royal, VA, a grandson, Bryce Gatton (or as Rex lovingly called him, "Bryce Harper"), and brother, Ray Andrews. When joining families with Tootie, Rex happily gained many (like, MANY) bonus children - Branyon Williams (Beth), Holli Jo Phillips (Colby), Tiffany "Tiff" Caputo (James) and Daniel Jennings (Melissa), along with 13 (!!) additional grandchildren that he loved so dearly - Logan Burner, Cade Spittler, Braden Burner, Ramzie Phillips, Rylan Phillips, Creed Spittler, Kelsi Caputo, Ayla Phillips, Brynnen Williams, Dani Rose Jennings, Jesse James Caputo, Sadie Jennings, and Duke Jennings. He also leaves behind 2 aunts and one uncle, (Goldie Andrews, Betty Money, and Sonny Smith) several cousins, a bunch of nieces and nephews, and a trail of broken hearts. Rex/Dad- you were one of a kind. Truly "unbelievable". The impact you had will forever live on. We are at peace knowing you are where you have wanted to be for so long – free of pain and with your son.

Rex was preceded in death by his son, Rex Allen Andrews Jr.; bonus daughter, Jodi Saffelle and five sisters, Billie Jean Andrews, Pat Kramer, Peggy Woodward, Rita, Merchant and Terry Franklin.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, October 26, 2024 at Bentonville Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Michael Normoyle and Braden Burner officiating. Shannon and Tootie would like to personally thank the doctors and nurses of Page Memorial Hospital in Luray, VA, as well as Blue Ridge Hospice for their amazing care over the last two weeks. He called you all his "Angels on Earth" and we will be forever grateful.

Memorial donations can be made to Blue Ridge Hospice, 333 West Cork Street, Winchester, VA 22601 or Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 East Ohio Street, Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60611.

Arrangements are by Enders & Shirley Funeral Home, Stephens City, Virginia.

To view the obituary or send online condolences, please visit endersandshirley.com