Kokomo, Indiana - Felix "Rex" E. Gabriel Jr., 87, of Kokomo, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Friday, Nov. 28, 2025.

Rex was born on Nov. 4, 1938, in Kokomo, to the late Felix Edward Gabriel Sr. and Alice (Walker) Gabriel.

On Jan. 7, 1961, Rex married the love of his life, Anita (Reynolds) Gabriel, who survives; they were blessed with nearly 65 years of marriage. Rex graduated from Kokomo High School, and later went on to work at Accurate Parts, where he was a laborer and a supervisor for nearly 21 years. He later went on to work at the Howard County Sherriff's Department, where he worked corrections for nearly 10 years until he retired.

In his free time, Rex had a passion for animals. He loved dogs and especially his birds. He enjoyed being outside and spray painting anything and everything in gold. He was also a fan of Miller Lite. Rex's most cherished past time was spent with his family, and especially his grandchildren.

Surviving Rex include his loving wife, Anita Gabriel, children, Eric (Tonya) Gabriel, Brian (Millie Burchett) Gabriel, Felicia (Marcus Johnson) Morris, Andrea (Bill) Stonestreet; grandchildren, Conner (Kelsey) Morris, Cameron (Cassie Cooper) Morris, Ariel (Josh) Byers, Shawn (Audrey) Gabriel, Courtney (Kenny Buscher) Gabriel, Josh (Heather) Gabriel, Brittany Gabriel and Matthew (Cassie) Gabriel; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Rex was preceded in death by a sister, Paula Gabriel; and a grandson, Will Stonestreet.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, located at St. Charles Catholic Church, 58 W. Fifth St., Peru, IN 46970, with Father Neterer the celebrant. Friends may visit with the family from 12:30 p.m. until the time of the service. A Rosary will be offered at noon.

Memorial Contributions honoring the life of Rex may be made out to his grandson's scholarship, the Will Stonestreet Technology Scholarship - Ivy Tech. Envelopes will be provided.

Shirey Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolences may be made online at www.shireyfh.com.