Robert “Rex” King

Robert “Rex” King, 84, of Springfield, passed away on July 23, 2026. He was born June 15, 1942, in Verona the son of Harold and Edith King, and was baptized as a young man at Verona Baptist Church. 

He graduated from Verona High School and served in the United States Naval Reserve, which he joined in 1964. In 1968 he took his bachelor’s degree from Southwest Missouri State College.  

He taught for over 30 years in high school classroom. He retired at 55 and was back in a classroom almost at once, substituting extensively for years afterward. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Edith King; his sister, Wanda Val- entine, and her husband, Joe Valentine; his brother, Jimmy King; and the mother of his son, Elizabeth Miesner.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy King; his son, Christopher King (Colleen); his sons Nick Venute (Audrey) and Tony Venute (MaryJean); his grandkids; his sister-in-law, Ruth King. 

Those who were taught, mentored, encouraged, or simply helped by Rex are especially welcome to gather and celebrate the impact of his life.

Services will be held on Saturday, August 15, at Southgate Baptist Church in Springfield. Visitation will be held at 10 a.m., the funeral service at 11 a.m., and a reception following. Family and friends are encouraged to bring photographs, keepsakes, or stories of Rex, written down or simply told, to share during the reception.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield.