One Bench at a Time: Rex's Gift to the Community

If you’ve noticed the benches around Friends Fellowship Community looking a little brighter lately, you can thank Rex Lanning, our resident with a paintbrush, a purpose, and a whole lot of heart.

It all started when Rex sat down to admire the new pier and realized the benches around campus were looking a bit… tired. Inspired by the beauty of the pier and motivated by a desire to help, he asked for permission to repaint the benches and got right to work.

Rex tackled the stationary benches first, making the most of the warm, dry weather. The portable ones are getting a makeover in his garage, and he’s about 75% done. Each bench takes about a week to complete, with careful priming, two coats of paint, and detailed sanding and repainting of the metal parts. Only two or three benches didn’t need a refresh!

Rex sitting on a freshly painted bench

(photo by Eugenia Mills)

Though Rex trained as a nurse, painting runs in his blood as his father was in the business, and Rex still paints homes for “fun money.” With no recent calls for house painting, he saw the bench project as the perfect opportunity to stay active and give back.

Giving back is nothing new for Rex. He spent time helping build churches in Kentucky, and he fondly remembers the gratitude, the joyful singing, and the delicious cooking. He has also volunteered as an usher at Civic Hall for over a decade and has already spruced up the green space across from his home where he’s planning to plant perennials next year.

When he’s not painting or landscaping, Rex enjoys golfing and going to tribute band concerts. He’s already been to five concerts this year, with four more on the calendar! His sunroom is a mini music museum, filled with instruments and concert posters. A former drummer, Rex played in three 18-piece orchestras and performed in a combo with his dad.

Rex shares his home with Holly, an adorable cockapoo he rescued from the local shelter. Holly was in rough shape, but now she’s a pampered pup with regular grooming, cozy sweaters, and a newfound love for toys.

Rex with his cockapoo, Holly

 

Rex’s parents once lived at FFC, and he was deeply grateful for the care they received. After retiring in 2018 and injuring his foot, Rex decided it was time to make the move himself. He left behind his barndominium on five acres near Boston and now enjoys the peace and perks of Independent Housing!

"It's nice and quiet here," Rex says. "Everyone is respectful, and I'm surrounded by retired professionals." And thanks to Rex, we're also surrounded by beautifully restored benches with each one a testament to his generosity, craftmanship, and community spirit.