Rex Lee Babcock

Rex Lee Babcock, 80, of Paoli, died on Jan. 12 at IU Health Bloomington Hospital.

Born Nov. 27, 1943 in Paoli, he was the son of Arthur Babcock and Ruth (Claxton) Babcock. He married L. Ann (Johnson) Babcock on Sept. 1, 1968 (55) years and she survives. He was a 1961 Paoli High School graduate.

Rex was a member of the Paoli United Methodist Church. He was also a proud veteran of the US Air Force, where he was stationed in Vietnam, Japan, and Korea. Before and after his four year tour of duty, he was employed as a salesman at Middleton Motors in Orleans. The business changed hands in 1988 when Rex became the owner and changed the name to Babcock Motors, Inc. He was a former Orange County Commissioner. Rex was an avid fan of IU basketball and Los Angeles Dodgers.

He is also survived by his four daughters: Jennifer (Dale Coleman) of Paoli; Jill Babcock Hutslar of Paoli; Jessica (Darren) Fortner of Bedford; and Julie (Curtis) Ralston of Paoli. Six grandchildren survive: Hailey (Tyson) McLaughlin, Logan Fortner, Emma Fortner, Harper Ralston, Saige Ralston, and Reagan Ralston. One great-grandbaby is due in late March. Rex is also survived by two brothers: Don (Liz) Babcock of Louisville and Danny “Buck” (Debbie) Babcock of Paoli; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Susan (Keith) Gilmore of Orleans survive, as well as several  nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, James A. Babcock.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at Dillman-Scott Funeral Home, 226 W Campbell Street, Paoli, IN 47454. Private interment to follow at the Mt. Gilead Church Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2-7 pm on Monday, January 15, 2024 at the funeral home and from 9 am until the time of service on Tuesday.

The family requests in lieu of flowers that donations be made to the Orleans American Legion, Orange County Cancer Patient Services, James A. Babcock Memorial Scholarship, or a charity of your choosing.