Obituary – Joe Rex Sport

Published 9:52 am Sunday, January 19, 2025

Joe Rex Sport, 92, a resident of Luverne, passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, Jan. 17, while surrounded by his family. Funeral services for Joe Rex will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 20, from the Chapel of Turners Funeral Home with Brother Richard Sport officiating and the eulogy delivered by Gary Sport. A private graveside service follows in Luverne Emmaus Cemetery with Rev. Malcolm Butts officiating and Turners Funeral Home of Luverne directing. 

Born on Feb. 17, 1932, in Dozier, Mr. Sport lived a life marked by dedication to his family, education, and community. Joe Rex was a proud alumnus of Luverne High School, Troy University and Auburn University at Montgomery. His passion for education led to a remarkable career that began at Chapel Hill High School where he taught history. Over the years, he rose to become the Principal of Highland Home High School and later served as the Superintendent of Crenshaw County Schools for an impressive 17 years, leaving a lasting legacy of excellence in education.

Beyond the classroom, Joe Rex’s commitment to service extended into public office. He served on the Luverne City Council, where his leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping the community. From 2003 to 2015, he served as the mayor of the City of Luverne, always striving to improve the lives of its residents.

Joe Rex had a genuine thirst for knowledge and took pride in learning many things. He earned his HAM Radio license and a certification as a clocksmith, demonstrating his love of lifelong learning and craftsmanship. He enjoyed building clocks and woodworking, often creating pieces that were both beautiful and functional. He owned WLVN Radio Station in Luverne, where he shared his passion for communication and connection with the community. He was an avid historian with a deep appreciation for preserving the past. He authored The History of Crenshaw County, a comprehensive work that shared his vast knowledge and passion for the area’s rich heritage. Through his writing, he left a lasting contribution to the community, ensuring that its stories and legacy would be remembered for generations to come.

Joe Rex was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, where he served from 1952 until 1954 during the Korean War, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. He was present at the signing of the Korean Armistice in 1953, a historic moment that brought an end to active hostilities. His service to his country was a source of great pride and reflected his lifelong dedication to duty and leadership.

Joe Rex’s most cherished role, however, was that of a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He married his beloved wife, Barbara Butts Sport, on Dec. 12, 1952. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and faith and raised five children. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of his life, bringing him immense joy and pride. He relished every moment spent with them, sharing stories, laughter, and life lessons that will be cherished for generations to come.

Mr. Sport is a lifelong member of Patsburg Baptist Church where he served as a song leader, Sunday School teacher, and deacon for over 50 years. His contributions to education and public service touched countless lives, and his legacy will endure in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Joe Rex was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Rex and Susannah Merrill Sport, and brothers, Mac Sport, Paul Sport and Jimmy Sport. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Barbara Butts Sport; their children, Kayle Sport, Gary (Cathy) Sport, Derri (Brian Verchot) Sport, Tom (Beverly) Sport and Scott (Colleen) Sport; grandchildren, Haley (Max) Kunstmann, Holland (Jason) Pouncey, John (Ashley) Andress, Susannah (Hunter) Weaver, Adam (Brittany) Sport, Lauren Sport, Cate Sport, Callie Armstrong and Joe Sport; great-grandchildren, Harlow and Pynes Pouncey, Olivia Kunstmann, and Ellie and Beckett Sport; siblings, Charles Sport, Terry (Dot) Sport, Robert Sport, Joan Sport Ballard and Richard (Ann) Sport; brother-in-law, Terry (Suze) Butts and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and cherished friends. 

Active pallbearers are John Andress, Adam Sport, Joe Sport, Jason Pouncey, Max Kunstmann, and Hunter Weaver. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Patsburg Baptist Church or the Crenshaw County Historical Society.