Rex A. Magee

Rex A. Magee, 81, prominent businessman and owner of Magee Farm Equipment of Poplar Bluff passed away Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2015 at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

Rex, son of the late Johnny and Neeney (Rogers) Magee was born July 4, 1934 in Piggott, Ark. He joined the Church of Christ in Piggott at an early age. He attended the First Christian Church in Poplar Bluff and was an active member of the Men's Bible Class.

Rex owned and operated Magee Farm Equipment for 25 years. He loved his work and all his customers became his friends. He was seen all over the country attending farm auctions and for 35 years he carried on a tradition established by his former partner, Lynald Foote, holding an annual Farm Auction Consignment Sale. After 58 years this sale still attracts buyers from several states. To say he was an avid golfer would be an understatement. Nothing gave him more pleasure than 18 holes with his golfing buddies.

Rex joined the Arkansas National Guard at the age of 17, and served over 15 years. He was one of eight Guardsmen from Piggott who were "nationalized" by President Eisenhower during the historical showdown between Governor Faubus and the President over the integration of Little Rock Central High School. They (the guardsmen) stood shoulder to shoulder along the sidewalk when the when black students entered the school. He said they were given weapons, but no bullets.

Survivors include his wife Betty Jackson of the home, two step sons, Doug (Angie) Jackson of Poplar Bluff, and Greg Jackson of Jackson, Tenn.; two step daughters: Teri King and Jeri Stewart both of Nashville, Tenn.; three brothers: J.W Magee of Jackson Miss., Gary Magee and James Magee of Piggott, Ark.; and one granddaughter, Leah Jackson.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Ray Magee, and baby sister. Sue.

Visitation will be from 6 pm to 8 pm Thursday at First Christian Church in Poplar Bluff. The funeral service will begin at 11am Friday at First Christian Church with Rev. Jerry Morgan officiating and Rev. Jeffrey Hammonds assisting. Burial will follow at the Poplar Bluff City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to Men's Bible Class of First Christian Church, 1601 North Main St. Poplar Bluff, MO 6391.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.cotrellfuneralservice.com.