Robert E. Rector

Robert E. Rector, 92, of Terre Haute passed away on Saturday, November 19, 2022 at home.  He was born July 2, 1930 in Eastern Vigo County to Russell Rector and Gertrude Hein Rector.

Robert graduated from Glenn High School in 1948 and from Indiana State Teachers College, now Indiana State University, with a Master’s Degree in Mathematics in 1952. He began his career in Illinois at New Holland High School and then Noble High School, teaching math and physical education and coaching basketball and baseball. After receiving a Fellowship, he earned his PhD in Math Education at the University of Illinois. In 1961, Robert became a Professor of Mathematics at Indiana State University, retiring in 1992.

Robert was a very devoted member of Northside Community United Methodist Church.

Robert was preceded in death by his loving wife of 65 years, Gwenneth Gorby Rector in 2016; his brothers and their wives, Marvin Rector (Wilma), Noble Rector (Doris); his sisters and their husbands, Lela Lemmon (Robert), Helen Kempf (Durward); and his brother-in-law, Jack Gorby. Robert is survived by his children, Marcy Higham (Steve) of Terre Haute, Randy Rector of Terre Haute, and Rod Rector (Cindy) of Noblesville, IN; grandchildren, Greg Higham (Lisa), Andy Higham (Kristi), Ashley Smith (Sylas), Casey Rector (Kayla), Darci Marchese (Stephen), Randa Rector, and Abbey Rector; great grandchildren, Kylie Higham, Cole Higham, Mallory Higham, Parker Higham, Mason Smith, Clay Smith, Nolan Smith, Max Marchese, Leo Marchese, Zoey Rector, and another great grandchild coming soon; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 23, 2022 in Northside Community United Methodist Church, 1075 N. Fruitridge Avenue, Terre Haute, IN with Reverend Dr. Clark Cowden officiating.  Visitation will be prior to services from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  Burial will be in Highland Lawn Cemetery.  Arrangements are under the direction of Callahan & Hughes Funeral Home, 605 South 25 ^th Street.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Northside Community United Methodist Church.