John Rex Tillery

John Rex Tillery, age 83, of Mount Vernon, Texas, passed away on Monday, April 27, 2026, in Sulphur Springs, Texas surrounded by his family.

Rex was born on June 12, 1942, in Pittsburg, Texas to John L. Tillery and Hazel Christine (McMichael) Tillery. Rex graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1960. After graduation, he served his country in the United States Army, the Texas National Guard and the United States Coast Guard Reserves. He became a police officer in September 1963 with the Dallas Police Department and served until his retirement as a Sergeant in 1992. He married Lela Beth Giddiens on June 2,1961, building 27 years of memories until her passing. Rex married Carolyn Hargrove (Riba) in 1989. 

Rex was a member of the Rotary International, where he served as Club President in 2001-2002. He was also a member of the Cypress Springs Utility District Board for many years. He could be counted on for his kindness, dedication, and unwavering support.

He loved football to include the Dallas Cowboys, the University of Texas Longhorns and his beloved Mount Vernon Tigers. Rex loved to travel and took many trips in his motor home around the country. He valued his lifelong friendships and never met a stranger.

Rex is preceded in death by his wife and mother of his children, Lela Tillery; his father, John Tillery; his mother, Christine Tillery; his brother, Billy Joe Tillery; his sisters, Mary Tillery and Hazel Bishop.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his children, Kevin (Paris) Tillery, Kristi (Stephanie) Tillery; grandchildren, Tyler (Landen) Tillery, Bradley (Renee) Tillery, Candice Howard, Casie Dryman, Maggie (Michael) Nicodemus, and Riley Bannon; 10 great grandchildren; brother, Bobby (Joyce) Tillery; several nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on May 2, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church with Pastor Jeff Lust officiating.

Services entrusted to Sam B. Harvey Funeral Home and online condolences may be made at www.samharveyfuneralhome.com

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/mount-vernon-rotary-club-motivational-scholarship-donation-form to make a donation to the Rotary Scholarship Fund in Rex's name

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