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BORN
1940
DIED
2024
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J. Britton Obituary
September 4, 1940 - August 26, 2024
J Rex Britton, 83, of Richmond, VA passed away peacefully on August 26, 2024.
Rex was born September 4, 1940 in Parkersburg, WV. From humble beginnings, he loved music at an early age and began playing violin in the 3rd grade.
He graduated from Parkersburg High School in 1958 and was the first in his family to attend college, earning a degree from Eastman School of Music in 1962 and a Masters in applied violin performance from West Virginia University School of Music in 1964.
Rex moved to Richmond in 1964 to work in Richmond public schools as a band and orchestra director. He met flutist Judith Mae Eastman that same year when both played with the Richmond Symphony and they married in 1966.
A lifelong performer, educator and music-lover, Rex played violin in the Richmond Symphony for 37 years, taught Band, Orchestra and Chorus in Henrico County Schools for 24 years and performed in numerous ensembles after retirement. He could play any instrument in any key and taught countless students to play and appreciate music, including his children and grandchildren.
Rex especially loved fishing, traveling, collecting, fixing and making things, and dedicating his time and talents to the church. He thoughtfully served his family by taking care of their needs and took time to turn strangers into friends everywhere he went. His positive attitude, sense of humor and gentle demeanor touched many.
He is survived by wife of 57 years, Judy; children, Melissa Raber (David), Pamela McLellan (Corey) and David Britton (Katherine); 16 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Preceding Rex in death are sister, Joan McDiffit, infant son, Matthew, and parents, J Rector and Ranah Britton.
A memorial service will be held Friday, September 13 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Giles Presbyterian Church with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Elijah House Academy.
Memories and Condolences
for J. Britton
Sponsored by Bennett Funeral Homes Central Chapel - Richmond.
Bruce King
July 2, 2025
Rex was a beautiful person. He used our small orchestra at
Chandler to set, for me, a personal, life-long example that the Trumpeter's Creed was not limited to Higher/Faster/Louder. It is of course a cherished memory to've been able to play with Rex on a few occasions.
Ann Coffey
September 13, 2024
Sorry for loss. Praying for your family
Ann Coffey and Family
Jan Murray
September 7, 2024
Rex was always the optimist, finding the good in everything, always interested in helping others. By requesting that a tree be planted in his memory, he continues to show his concern for others. Talking with him was always a 'breath of fresh air'. He is missed.
How you can show support
Doug Kellner
September 7, 2024
Many thanks for your inspiration, leadership, and support.
Wanda Bagby Evans
September 6, 2024
Mr. Britton was my band teacher at Chandler Jr. High School. He encouraged me to audition for All City Band which I made. I have thought of Mr. Britton often. May God comfort his family, friends and students.
Judy Miles Weston
September 4, 2024
Dear Judy,
Richard and I send our love and sympathy to you and your family. Rex offered his fine talent and expertise in my Senior Recital at Monumental Church in 1968! He, Virginia Rouse and Jackie Booth graciously joined me in the Mozart Quartet for Oboe and Strings. It was an evening of great fun and success! The music world has lost a fine musician!
Another wonderful memory of mine -- Richard's dad and your mother were in the same nursing home, and I had the joy of helping Lorraine (another amazing musician) form a Bell Chime "Orchestra", and I was honored to direct the Recital for the residents -- It was a "Bravo! Moment", and your mom was a happy lady!
May God comfort you with His love and peace.
In sympathy and love, Judy Miles Weston
Shirley Green
September 3, 2024
I was saddened to learn of Mr. Britton's passing. He was my middle school music teacher. Several times I was able to attend a performance by the symphony and he was playing. May God Comfort and Keep You Now And Always!
Shirley Green
Jesse Kell
September 3, 2024
Judy, Melissa, David, and family, I mourn with you all regarding the loss of Rex. During my formative years he taught me so much. Musically, he encouraged me to explore and try new things. His piano accompaniment during worship services at Restoration was always a source of encouragement as I learned how to play the trumpet. As a teenager, he both taught me some basic home improvement skills and provided opportunities to make money with them. He always seemed curious about my development and demonstrated the care of an elder member of our faith community. He genuinely lived out his love for Jesus in such practical and impactful ways - primarily with a sense of joy and peace. I am so grateful for his life. He will be missed.
-Jesse Kell
Mike Wilson, TJHS 1974
September 3, 2024
I am so very saddened to hear this news. Mr/. Britton was my band/orchestra teacher at TJ back in the early 70´s. He was as patient a teacher as anyone could imagine, with many of the kids still learning how to hold their instruments, let alone play them. He guided us through fundraising events to raise money for the school´s first marching band uniforms and took the school to it´s first appearance in a parade. Mr. Britton was ambitious enough to take on "Rhapsody in Blue" for a year-end performance in my senior year when he had a young piano prodigy in the class. I spoke to him recently through LinkedIn and was happy to know that he remembered me (or at least,said he did.) He was a good man and he´ll be missed. My condolences to his family and all the students he taught.
Janet Varvel
September 3, 2024
Rex had a way of making ordinary things fun. He was a special friend, very talented, loved God.
Jacques Houtmann
September 2, 2024
REX was a musician of great sensitivity and efficiency. Our thoughts are with Judy and the whole family. Jacques and Yolaine Houtmann.
Bill Kinzie
September 1, 2024
Rex and I began Strings teaching around the same time, I taught at Patrick Henry HS in Roanoke. I first met Rex at Virginia Music Camp a few years later. One evening he invited me to join in string quartet session after the students had gone to bed.
There began a long association. We cooperated at Regional Strings events, and watched string orchestras proliferate over Virginia.
18 years ago we retired and moved to Midlothian. Several times he played in a quartet with me. He was always a friend and mentor. I will miss his smile and music making. Bill Kinzie
Marilyn (Wolfe) Ruben
September 1, 2024
Dear Judy, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your husband. Please know you are in my thoughts. Miles may separate us, but memories will always remain of our days in the orchestra at Westhampton School. Now my husband & yours are singing with the angels in heaven!
Barbara Paterson
September 1, 2024
Judy, I'm so sorry to hear of Rex's passing. Both of you were so welcoming when Alan and I first moved down here and with Alan in your mutual RSO work. God bless you and your family.
Janet Worsham
September 1, 2024
Rex was a wonderful person, an I am sorry. He had such a good heart and was a fine musician. As an educator, I was honored to follow in his footsteps. Thank you, Rex.
Showing 1 - 17 of 17 results
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