Rex Duane O'Banion's Obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Rex Duane O'Banion on October 3, 2023. Rex was born on October 17, 1940, in Ralston, Oklahoma, to his parents, Carl O'Banion and Beatrice (Lewis) O'Banion. He was the beloved eldest of eight siblings, including three brothers and four sisters.
Rex's journey through life was marked by dedication and excellence. He graduated from Sand Springs High School in 1959 and embarked on a path of higher education, attending Tulsa University to pursue mechanical engineering. His intellect was evident through his academic achievements, consistently earning straight A's and even went on to receive scholarships. In 1960, Rex made a noble decision to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force.
The beautiful story of Rex's life took an extraordinary turn in February 1965 when he was set up on a blind date with Betty Lavaughn Scott, a woman who would become the love of his life. Betty remembers Rex as a man of incredible humor, integrity, and humility. Their connection was immediate, and they embarked on a lifelong journey together. Rex and Betty were united in marriage on January 7, 1966, in Jenks, Oklahoma. This union blessed them with two sons, Scott Duane, and Sean Darin.
Rex possessed a gentle and reserved demeanor, yet he never met a stranger. His humility and respect for others endeared him to everyone he encountered. He had a deep passion for fishing, camping, woodworking, and metalworking. His knack for working on antique cars showcased his significant intelligence and skillset. Even at a young age, Rex displayed his remarkable abilities. At just ten years old, when the family car refused to start, Rex crawled underneath to diagnose and fix the issue. His resourcefulness and willingness to help others were lifelong traits.
Rex was a devoted family man who always put his family first. He cherished his role as a father and made lasting memories while actively participating in his sons' activities, including Cub Scouts and baseball. His heart overflowed with love for his family, and his legacy lives on in his cherished role as a grandfather.
Rex was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Beatrice, and his sisters, Patricia Workman, Sandra Vincent, and Peggy O'Banion. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Betty O'Banion, his sons, Scott O'Banion and wife Heather, and Sean O'Banion and wife Yuko. Rex is also survived by his brothers, Gary O'Banion, Mike O'Banion, Joe O'Banion, and his sister, Tammy Creed. His memory will be carried forward by his grandchildren, Sakura O'Banion, Mizuki O'Banion, and Makoto O'Banion.
Visitation will be held on Monday, October 9, 2023, from 5:00 PM-7:00 PM at Floral Haven Funeral Home, located at: 6500 S 129th E Ave, Broken Arrow, OK 74012.
Services will be held the following day, Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at 12:30 PM at Floral Haven Funeral Home Chapel, located at: 6500 S 129th E Ave, Broken Arrow, OK 74012. The United States Air Force Honor Guard will be in attendance to perform Military Honors. Interment will follow immediately after conclusion of the chapel service at Floral Haven Cemetery and Memorial Gardens.
Anyone wishing to send flowers may do so by ordering through our website or by calling Floral Designs by Floral Haven at (918) 459-1525. Any other florists may deliver flowers by 3:00 PM on Monday, October 9, 2023, in order for them to be set out during visitation.
Arrangements entrusted to Floral Haven Funeral Home.
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