Rex Kornegay

Rex Kornegay, a cherished pastor, singer, and family patriarch, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2024, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on May 27, 1942, in Houston County, Alabama, Rex was a beacon of faith and love throughout his 82 years.

Rex's journey began as the son of Crawford "Saint Boy" and Lula Cook Kornegay, whose guidance and love shaped him into the compassionate man he became. He grew up surrounded by the warmth of his sisters, Linda Kornegay Baker, Louette Kornegay Visage, and Mary Kornegay Whitsett, and the fond memories they shared will be treasured forever. Rex's education at Rehobeth High School, where he graduated in 1960, laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to learning and leading.

With a voice as strong as his faith, Rex began singing in high school and continued to inspire through song as he became a pastor. He devoted over 50 years to ministry, shepherding his flock with unwavering dedication. Rex met his beloved wife, Rita, at Ashford First Assembly, where he later pastored for 12 years. Together, they created a life filled with love, music, and service to others.

Rex's professional journey was as diverse as it was fulfilling. As a driver at UPS, Rex’s work ethic and leadership helped him to have the opportunity to be promoted numerous times. However, as a testament to his faith and trust in God, he declined a promotion to an executive position to follow the call of God on his life and surrender to full time ministry. He later founded the Rex Kornegay Insurance company, starting in his own home and building it with the same integrity and care he gave to his ministry. In 2014, after decades of faithful service, Rex retired from his pastoral duties, due to health reasons, leaving behind a community forever enriched by his leadership.

Rex's love for music was only matched by his love for his family. He leaves behind his daughters, Ranada Cook and Tasha Dillard (Charles), who will remember him as a guiding light and a source of unwavering support. His grandchildren, Brenna Odom (Heath), Jarrod Skinner (Katie), Savannah King (Peyton), and Swayze Cook, as well as his great-grandchildren, Luke Odom, Isaac Odom, Jacob Odom, Keeton King, Finnick King, and Everett Rex Skinner, will carry forward his legacy of kindness and faith.

Though Rex was a man of many talents, his ability to touch lives extended beyond his immediate family. He was a special uncle to Greg Baker and a treasured friend to many, including Kim and Tim Simmons, who showed their love by accompanying him to church and ensuring he enjoyed a hearty Sunday lunch each week. Brother and Sister Ann and Doug Kitts were also instrumental in helping care for Rex.

Throughout his life, Rex never lost his passion for music. He played the piano and guitar with a joy that was contagious, and his voice rang out in many quartets, lifting spirits and spreading comfort. Rex's musical legacy is a testament to his belief in the power of praise and worship.

The story of Rex Kornegay is one of unwavering faith, boundless love, and a life lived in service to others. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his spirit will continue to resonate through the lives he touched and the family he adored. Rex's legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and an enduring commitment to the values he held dear. He will be deeply missed, but the memories of his warm smile, his gentle guidance, and his melodious voice will live on as a comforting presence in the lives of all who were blessed to know him.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm on Monday, July 22, 2024 at Ashford First Assembly of God with Rev. Charles Dyess and Brother Tim Simmons officiating. Interment will be in the Ashford City Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Monday one hour prior to the service. Following the services on Monday, the family will receive friends at the home of Brenna and Heath Odom, 1793 Lucy Grade Road, Ashford, AL.