Rex Eugene Minter, a compassionate and kind-hearted soul who had an unwavering love for animals and a genuine concern for the well-being of others, passed away on August 4, 2023 at home after a battle with fast-growing metastatic cancer. He was 72 years old.

Born on January 22, 1951, Rex grew up in Livingston, Texas, where he developed a deep connection with the natural world and a special affinity for animals. He had a heart that radiated kindness and generosity, leaving an indelible mark on the lives, furry and human, of those fortunate enough to have known him through his work for several branches of the US Postal Service, his time as a technician at Minter Air Conditioning and Heating or about town.

Rex had a unique and endearing habit that perfectly encapsulated his compassionate character. He and his cousin Joe Wiggins shared countless road trips, traversing the vast landscapes from East Texas to Colorado and Arkansas. Whenever Rex spotted a dog or cat that appeared abandoned and hungry, their journey came to a halt. Without hesitation, he would insist on stopping at the nearest store to purchase food for the animals, regardless of how far they needed to go. His passion for caring for the less fortunate, even the four-legged ones, reflected his empathetic nature and his commitment to making the world a better place through kindness and compassion for creatures great and small.

As a young man, Rex was often seen wearing a cowboy hat, his pale complexion standing in stark contrast to his surroundings. His kind spirit extended to all he encountered, as demonstrated by an incident at a rest stop north of Livingston. Rex came across a man seeking gas money to reach Dallas. Without hesitation, he handed over $20.00 to assist him. A month later, when Rex passed by the same rest stop and saw the man still there, he chastised him for attempting to deceive others. As Rex returned to the car, his cousin and best friend Joe, knowing Rex as he did asked, "How much did you give him this time?" Rex replied, "Only fifteen dollars."

Rex's impact was not limited to animals and strangers. He also had a profound influence on his family. Joe's son Doug Wiggins fondly remembers how Rex introduced him to literary treasures like Lord of the Rings and vinyl records of comedy legends like National Lampoon and Cheech and Chong. Rex's niece Amy enjoyed learning about spirituality from her uncle Rex who always had a valuable lesson to share in a kind and thoughtful way.

Rex leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion. He is survived by his devoted wife and companion of 29 years, Linda Stephens Minter, his uncle, Gene Boddie and wife Faylene, his brother Sherman Minter and wife Judy, his niece Robin Schiefelbein all of Minnesota, his brother Truman (Buddy) Minter of Livingston, his daughter Amy Minter Mayer of Conroe, TX, and a network of cousins and lifelong friends, including his best friend and cousin Joe Wiggins, cousins Bonnie Blue Wiggins, Martha Wiggins, Carline Boddie Swilley, Linda Jackson, Charlene Pope Taylor, and countless others who were touched by his sweet spirit and gentle nature.

Rex Eugene Minter will be deeply missed, his memory forever imprinted in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to local animal welfare organizations like the SPCA of Polk County in his honor.

Rex, May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand. We will see you on the other side.