Rex Carlton Klepper, 96, of Abilene went home to be with his Lord Jesus on Sunday, January 31. He was surrounded at his bedside by family and friends.

Rex was born July 14, 1924 in Clyde, Texas to Roy and Minnie (Kniffen) Klepper. He graduated from Clyde High School in 1941 at age 16. He attended Baylor University for one year on a football scholarship/ before A member of The Greatest Generation, Rex proudly served his country in World War II as a pilot in the U.S. Navy. After the war, Rex enrolled at Abilene Christian College where he lettered in football and baseball. Rex was a lifelong educator and while teaching in Pyron, he met the love of his life, Irene Strain. They were married on March 25, 1948.

Rex was a lifelong educator, teaching and coaching in Hobbs, TX, Colorado City, Odessa, Snyder and McAllen, where Rex was principal of the elementary school.

The couple retired to Clyde, Texas in 1981 and relocated to Abilene in 1999.

A lifelong supporter of Abilene Christian University, Rex funded the educations of numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. He was a fervent booster of ACU athletics and rarely missed a game. His passion, though, was Lady Wildcat basketball. An endowed scholarship fund for the ladies' basketball program is named in honor of Rex and Irene Klepper.

Rex was inducted into the ACU Sports Hall of Fame in 2004. He was a regular participant in the ACU Homecoming Parade and the ACU Alumni Baseball game.

Most importantly, Rex put all his trust in Jesus. He was a lifelong member of Churches of Christ and most recently worshiped with the family of faith at Oldham Lane Church of Christ.

Rex was preceded in death by his wife Irene; his parents; three brothers—R.V., Rae, and Richard; and a sister, Fannye Mae.

He is survived by a sister, Connye (Klepper) Hays and her husband Jim along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who are considered family. A special thank you from the family to Bob and Jeanette Campbell and their daughter Courtney. Courtney was the daughter Rex never had. She cared for Rex the last several years of his life and brought him joy at a time when joy was in short supply.

A graveside service will be held for the family at Cuthbert Family Cemetery in Mitchell County under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home of Clyde.