Rex Alden Bessent was born on May 7, 1945, in Brownwood, to Melvin Newton Bessent and Ione Stanley Bessent. He grew up on the family farm near the Duren Community in Mills County. He thoroughly enjoyed his time growing up in that area with his brothers Stanley Bessent and Lanny Bessent.
Rex died on March 18, 2025, at Hendrick Medical Center in Brownwood, after a lengthy illness.
Rex attended school at Mullin. He graduated as valedictorian of his class in 1963. He then attended Howard Payne University, where he graduated in 1967 with a degree in accounting. Rex also furthered his education at North Texas State University.
Rex met his wife, Norma Jean Taylor, at Howard Payne. They married on June 8, 1968, in Lampasas.
Rex was licensed as a Certified Public Accountant in 1970 and remained licensed until his death. He began his career working for John Arthur Thomason.
After leaving John’s practice, Rex spent the rest of his professional career in public accounting in Brownwood. He thoroughly enjoyed his work and visiting with clients. He considered most of his clients his friends.
Rex served as Brown County auditor for 23 years. He was well respected and felt this work was a meaningful contribution to the community.
Rex was one of the owners of Roberts & Petty, Inc. for many years. He enjoyed his relationships with Ted Petty, Dale Nix and Mickey Perkins as well as the many employees and friends he interacted with in that company.
Rex loved the country. For many years, he raised cattle with his brother, Lanny. After Lanny’s death, he and his son, Mark, raised cattle and then goats. He really enjoyed working on the land.
Rex and Norma have two children, Amanda Kaye Poole and Mark Taylor Bessent, both of Brownwood. He was involved in their many activities growing up and was always there to help them.
He also enjoyed being with the grandchildren and, as his health deteriorated, stayed involved as well as he could.
Early in his life, Rex and his family attended First Baptist Church of Mullin, where he was saved. Rex and Norma were active members of First Baptist Church of Brownwood for most of their lives. He taught Sunday School and Royal Ambassadors, served as a deacon and was on numerous committees. Rex’s faith was extremely important to him.
Rex was predeceased by his parents and brothers.
He is survived by his wife, Norma; children Amanda (and husband, Scott), and Mark (and wife, Kara); and four grandchildren, Hannah, Kaden, Taylor and Kailee.
Funeral services for Rex were held March 22, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Brownwood. Burial followed in Oakview Cemetery in Mullin. Heartland Funeral Home had charge of arrangements.
Donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Brownwood or Howard Payne University Scholarships.
