Rex Vann was born in Chewey on Nov. 1, 1934, the son of Tom Vann and Bissie (Byrd) Vann. A lifetime resident of the area, Rex graduated from Sequoyah High School. He proudly served his country for two years as a member of the U.S. Army.

He attended Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, graduating in May 1989. During his 40-plus years of sharing God's word, he served as pastor at First Indian Baptist Church, Illinois River Baptist, Cherry Tree Baptist Church and Oaklane Baptist Church, and also served as a Chaplain for Cherokee Nation Home Health. On May 29, 1998, Rex married Anna Lee Davis in Fort Smith, Ark.

Rex Vann passed away early on Monday morning, Aug. 23, 2010, at his home in Tahlequah, in the company of his wife and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Molly Pershica and Betty Jackson. Rex is survived by his beloved wife, Anna Lee Vann, of the home; by his son, Larry Don Smith and his wife Robbie of Tahlequah; his daughter, Stephanie Smith of Tahlequah; his aunt, Lillie Johnson of Stillwater; his niece, Carolyn Johnson of Stillwater; and his grandchildren, Bradyn Smith, Jacey Smith and Bryce Smith; as well as many other family members, friends and loved ones.

Hart Funeral Home, 1506 N. Grand, 456-8823.

(Tahlequah Daily Press, Tahlequah, OK, 25 Aug 2010 - courtesy of Tedd Cocker)