November 6, 1951 – September 18, 2012
The tapestry of Rex's life wove many vibrant threads. Born in Frankfort, Indiana to Paul Spray and Eunice Godbey Spray, Rex graduated from Purdue and became a banquet chef. Rex later earned a nursing degree from City College SF in 1984. As a SF General Hospital nurse and Department of Public Health case manager, Rex cared for people impacted by trauma, mental illness, and poverty. Rex treated each person with dignity and was beloved by his clients. A fierce activist for social and economic justice, Rex advocated for workers, patients, and public services by serving as shop steward, negotiator, trustee, vice president, and president of SEIU Local 790.
Rex shared the last 19 years with his beloved partner Tim Stewart. A generous, playful uncle, Rex remains in the hearts of his nieces and nephews, as well as siblings John (Lillian) Spray, Edwin (Sharon) Spray, Emily (Sonny) Lahee, and Diana (Gearren) Bodish. He relished art, travel, good food, and recently, TV show Glee and band Bonnie Dune.
A memorial will be held at the Neptune Society, 1 Loraine Court, San Francisco on Friday, November 16 from 2 to 4 p.m. All welcome.
Rest well Rex. A job well done.