Richard Luther Rex Sr.

He was born to Luther Rex and Florence Derr of Allentown, Pennsylvania. He was predeceased by his sister, Myrtle. Beloved father to his daughter Robyn Soul (Stephen) and son Richard Rex Jr., and beloved stepfather to Christopher McKay, Erin Lehnoff and Elizabeth McKay. He was a loving grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, brother-in-law and friend.

Dick grew up in Allentown, PA, where he graduated from Parkland High School. He excelled in sports, playing both football and baseball in high school, and was awarded a college scholarship for baseball. His high school days were memorable to him -- voted most handsome, he attended high school reunions for many years to reconnect with friends.

After college, he joined the Marine Reserves and received his Master’s degree in Forestry from Duke University. He held various positions in forestry and Parks and Recreation management, and then worked for the Harford County Government Department of Water and Sewer for 30 years, ultimately holding the position of Chief of the department. In 2020 he was recognized for his outstanding service to the citizens of Harford County.

Dick took great pride in his Native American heritage, and he can trace his ancestors to tribes in Delaware. He always had a love of nature, especially birds and his favorite, the eagle. He spoiled all his beloved dogs throughout the years. He was always ready for a trip to the beach or to the casino to try his luck at the slot machines. His early love of sports continued throughout his life, and he was an avid Ravens fan and always cheered the Duke basketball team. He was a lover of all types of music, from Jimmy Buffet to Johann Bach.

We’ll remember Dick as a man who was compassionate, kind, competent and loving. He was the ultimate handyman and could tackle just about any job – always ready to help family and friends. His was truly a life well lived. Dick, Thank you Thank you!

"It doesn’t interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking a fool for love, for your dreams, for the adventure of being alive."

--Excerpt from Oriah Mountain Dreamer, Indian Elder

A visitation for Richard will be held Sunday, October 27, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Schimunek Funeral Home of Bel Air, Inc., 610 W MacPhail Rd, Bel Air, MD 21014. A brief remembrance service will start at 5 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Eagle Foundation (eagles.org) or plant a tree in Dick’s memory (alivingtribute.org)