Rex Clarence Smith, 76, Passed on to heaven Saturday afternoon, November 23, at Riverside Hospital in Columbus. Born October 2, 1948 in Cleveland to Hugo and Angela Smith, he grew up in Brecksville. Rex had a variety of jobs during his lifetime, being a carpenter, painter, commercial fisherman, and finally retiring as a long-haul truck driver.

Being an avid reader, Rex had an interest in astronomy and World War 2 history. He also liked to spend time at his favorite restaurant Gigi's Country Kitchen in The Plains.  Rex had a special affinity and love with animals, and was always surrounded by dogs and cats, especially his "little buddy" Kirby the cat.

Rex is survived by his Brother Kirk Smith of Hawaii, nephew Levi Smith of Hawaii, niece Ruth (Dan) Tashlein of Perkasie PA, Erika (David) Fay of The Plains, Ariel Salzman (Brendan Robinson) of Portland, OR, Naomi (Sheldon) Brown, and Shannon Montgomery, both of California, and brother-in-law Bernard Salzman of Millfield. He is also survived by many great and great, great nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister Celeste Salzman, and nephew Jonathan Salzman.

Rex's wishes were to be cremated and his ashes scattered in the Pacific Ocean. There are no services planned. Cremation arrangements are with Jagers & Sons Funeral Home, Athens. Please share a memory, a note of condolence, or sign the online register book at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.