Ronnie Glen Rector

Ronnie Glen Rector, 75, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. He was born on March 10, 1951, in Beaumont, Texas, to Leo and Agnes Earline Armstrong Rector.

At the age of six, Ronnie and his family moved back to Nacogdoches, returning to the original homeplace of the Armstrong and Rector families. Much of Ronnie’s younger years were spent on Blount Farm with his beloved maternal grandparents, Henry and Della Armstrong. Those early years shaped his strong values of family, hard work, and appreciation for a simple, meaningful life.

Ronnie attended Woden High School and courageously volunteered to join the United States Army on November 7, 1969. He was deployed to Vietnam with E Troop, 17th Cavalry, 173rd Airborne Brigade, where he served his country with honor and bravery. During his service, Ronnie was wounded in combat and was awarded the Purple Heart.

After returning home from Vietnam, Ronnie’s uncle, R.L. Armstrong, helped him begin his career with Brown & Root Marine Division, where he learned to become a crane operator—a trade he would carry with him throughout his working life.

In 1976 Ronnie met Bobbie Henderson, who would become his lifelong partner and beloved wife of 49 years. Together, they built a life rooted in love, dedication, and family.

Ronnie spent many years working hard to provide for his family. He was employed for many years by local companies Cal-Tex Lumber and International Paper and later joined the Local 178 Heavy Equipment Operator Union as a crane operator from which he retired after more than 20 years. He took great pride in his work and in providing for those he loved.

One of Ronnie’s greatest joys in life was being “Papp.” He treasured the time spent with his grandsons, especially driving them to their many sports practices and games—moments that meant the world to him and created memories that will be cherished forever.

Ronnie was also well known for his iconic mustache, a defining feature that made him instantly recognizable and added to his unmistakable presence.

In 2025, Ronnie rededicated his life to the Lord through believer’s baptism, a decision that reflected his enduring faith and brought him great peace.

Ronnie will be remembered for his strength, resilience, and steady presence, as well as the way he touched the lives of those around him. He lived a life marked by dedication, courage, and deep care for others.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Bobbie Rector; his children, CW4 William Rector and wife Jenni, Veronica and husband Wally Sutton, Nathan Rector, and Kate and husband Luin McConnell; his grandchildren, Megan Spang, Tyler Rector, Nolan Sparks, Shelby Sparks, Rylan Sparks, Luin “Mac” McConnell III, and Grant McConnell; and his great-grandchildren, Ashton Rector and Maya Rector. He is also survived by his childhood best-friend and partner in crime cousin, Sherry Lynn Miller and husband Lee; his nephew, Randy Gresham and wife Sarah; and great-nephew Callen and great-niece Eisley, along with many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Agnes Earline Rector; his brothers, Wayne Rector and Rickey Gresham; his maternal grandparents, Henry and Della Armstrong; and his paternal grandparents, Herman and Pearl Rector.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Eric Cline for going above and beyond in his care for Ronnie and for the compassion shown to the entire family. They also wish to thank Harbor Hospice for their support and kindness during this time.

Just as Ronnie lived his life quietly, it was his wish not to have a public service. If you wish to honor Ronnie’s legacy, please send your donations to either:

Corner Post Cowboy Church

8151 County Road 1638, Nacogdoches, Texas 75964

Harmony Hill Singing School in c/o Jeff Coker

9260 Westfork Trail Fort Worth, Texas 76179

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