Rex Farrell Gillum

Rex Farrell Gillum

Rex Farrell Gillum passed away peacefully 5 July 2026 in Burleson, Tx at age 90, with the love of his life by his side. He lived a life marked by service, education, devotion to family, and a commitment to helping others.

Rex was born 6 May 2026 to Don and Sybil Gillum in Rover, Arkansas. He grew up cotton farming where he learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and integrity that would guide him throughout his life. He graduated from Gould High School in Gould, Arkansas, and continued his education at Arkansas A&M before answering the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force.

During a distinguished Air Force career, Rex was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal and the Joint Service Commendation Medal in recognition of his outstanding service and leadership. He was highly respected by his fellow service members and served as a positive role model for countless young men in the military. His military career provided opportunities for him and his family to travel throughout the world, creating lasting memories and broadening their appreciation of different cultures and people.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, Rex continued his pursuit of knowledge and education. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, a Master of Science in Education, and a Master of Science in Computer Science. He later shared his expertise and passion for learning as an instructor at Tarrant County Junior College, from which he also retired after 15 years of dedicated service.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 67 years, Barbara Ann Gillum; his son, James Gillum, daughter-in-law, Jimmie; nine grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was immensely proud of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and he treasured every opportunity to share in their lives.

Rex was preceded in death by his beloved children, daughter, Leah Ann Gillum, and his son, Terrance "Terry" Gillum, his parents Don and Sybil Gillum, his brothers and sisters Donna Leah Miller, Arthur William Gillum, Betty Rose McDuffie, Martha Ann Jeane, and Johnny Wesley Gillum.

Rex was a Christian man, and lived his beliefs through kindness, humility, and service to others. He enjoyed traveling with Barbara in their motorhome, exploring new places, and making memories with family and friends. He was also an avid golfer who found great joy on the golf course.

Above all, Rex was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Barbara says "he was the best husband she ever had", a reflection of the deep love and devotion they shared throughout their 67 years of marriage. His strength of character, wisdom, faith, and unwavering dedication to his family will be remembered by all who knew him.

Rex leaves behind a legacy of honor, service, education, faith, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, former students, and all whose lives he touched.

Visitation with the family will be held 13 July 2026 10am to noon, at Mountain Valley Funeral Home in Joshua, Tx

Graveside service will be held at 2pm, Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery in Dallas, Tx.

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." Revelation 21:4