Rex Dean Rictor, age 84 of Ottawa, Kansas passed away February 3, 2026. Rex was born July 30, 1941 in Scott City, Kansas to parents Alvin Lee Rictor and Mary Ann Green Rictor. As a young man, Rex realized he had a call to the ministry and completed his seminary education. It was also during this time that he was united in marriage to Shirley Janette McIntire. They enjoyed many happy years together. Together they served Assembly of God Churches in Independence, Kansas; Eudora, Kansas; Williamstown, Kansas; Baldwin, Kansas; Edna, Kansas and St. John,. Kansas. Rex also spent six years as a traveling evangelist, working across the United States.
In addition to his vocation, Pastoring churches, Rex enjoyed horses, photography, golfing, working on cars, playing guitar and singing. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and many acquaintances.
Rex was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Twila and one brother, Derry. He is survived by his wife, Shirley of the home; daughters, Rexanna Schneider and husband, James of Hayes, Kansas and Evonna James and husband, Rev. Ron James of Ottawa, Kansas; grandchildren, Jessica, April, Dustin and Amanda; great-grandchildren, Jason, Zaya, Gabriel, Ashton, Riley and Liam; sister, Marilyn Swisher; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Memorial services will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, February 14, 2026 at the Eudora Community Church. A second Memorial Service will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, February 21, 2026 at First Assembly of God in Independence, Kansas. Arrangements are with Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home of Lawrence. Memorial donations in honor of Rex may be made to Shirley Rictor.
