Smiley Wilbanks Obituary

Smiley Rex Wilbanks, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on September 29, 2025, at the age of 90. Known simply as "Rex" to many and "Pop" to most, he lived a life marked by kindness, humor, strength, and an unmistakable, sweet laughter that brightened every room he entered. Rex was born on June 9, 1935, to the late Smiley G. and Pearl Smith Wilbanks. He grew up in the Blue Ridge community of South Carolina, and as one of eleven children - he was surrounded by the love and lessons of a large family. From an early age, he carried with him a zest for life - before joining the military, he was a regular at the Greer Jaycee Dragstrip, where he often came away a champion. In 1960, Rex married the love of his life, Joyce Ann O'Kelly Wilbanks. Together, they built a marriage that lasted 65 years, filled with laughter, partnership, and devotion. They raised four children – Sherri Stokes (Mickey), Mitzi Moore (Gregg), Craig Wilbanks (Monty Kehl), and Kelli Wilbanks – and eventually welcomed six grandchildren and two great-grandsons into their family. Rex was the proud Pop of Josh Moore (Brittany), Bethani Bachman, Jenna Lafever (Mark), Brooke Bachman, Rylan and Ashlan Hardin, and the great-grandfather of Jackson and Harrison Moore. Rex was preceded in death by one brother, Lecil Wilbanks, and six sisters: Katherine Hill, Connie Nelson, Rownie Caldwell, Frances Langley, Emily Southern, and Marcelle Lynn Sloan. He is survived by three sisters: Bobbie Tucker (Ronnie), Louise Few, and Brenda Collins (John). Rex proudly served his country for 22 years in the United States Air Force, with assignments that took him and his family around the world. His service included tours in Japan, New Delhi, India, Lajes AFB in the Azores, Portugal, and several stateside posts. His years in the military instilled in him a deep sense of duty, discipline, and pride in his country. After completing his military service, Rex continued to work as a systems programmer for several companies including Greenville County Schools, Reeves Brothers, and Synalloy. Faith was central to Rex's life. He was a dedicated member of Washington Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as a deacon, chairman of the building and grounds committee, a member of the host and hostess committee, and a member of the Ronnie Knight Sunday school class. Prior to that, he was member of Camp Creek Baptist Church where he also served in a number of roles. He also gave back to his community serving 12-years as a member of the Lake Cunningham Fire Department Commission. Rex's hands were never idle. He was a natural "fix-it" man, whether it was a car, a computer, or anything in between. He found joy in gardening and was especially known for growing and making the best boiled peanuts around. He loved music, road trips with his family, and could often be spotted in his well-worn Members Only jacket with a pair of aviators tucked neatly into his t-shirt pocket. Above all, Rex will be remembered for the way he loved his family and cared for those around him. His steady presence, gentle humor, and quiet strength will be deeply missed. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at The Wood Mortuary. Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at The Wood Mortuary. Burial will follow in Wood Memorial Park. Honorary escort will be the Ronnie Knight Sunday School Class of Washington Baptist Church. Memorials may be made to the Kingdom Vision Fund at Washington Baptist Church, 3500 N. Highway 14, Greer, South Carolina 29651. The family is grateful for the outpouring of love and support, and for all who called Rex their friend. His legacy lives on in the laughter, kindness, and love he shared so freely. The family is at the home. Online condolences may be made at www.thewoodmortuary.com.