STALEY, Rex E.

The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Arizona Sunday, July 13, 2003 Rex E. Staley, prominent Arizona banker and philanthropist died July 7, 2003. In addition to serving as president of several banks and a saving and loan association he also represented those industries as president of the Arizona Bankers Assn. and the Arizona Savings and Loan League. Mr. Staley was an ardent community leader. He was a founding member of the board of directors of the Phoenix Art Museum as well as the founder of the Sun Cities Art Museum, the forerunner of the West Valley Art Museum. He was an early director and treasurer of the Phoenix Symphony and a long time trustee of the Heard Museum. Mr. Staley assisted in the organization of the Barrows Neurological foundation and was the third president. He was president of the Arizona Heart Association, Maricopa County Cancer Society, Arizona Cerebral Palsy Society, Phoenix Boys Club, a member of the Governors Committee to Hire the Handicapped, chapter chairman of the Young Presidents Organization, State chairman of USO and member of the national board, Radio Free Europe, President Eisenhower People to People Program. He served a term of five years on the Madison School Board, was a charter director of the Arizona State University Foundation, now emeritus, and has maintained that interest for more than fifty years. He was a decorated WW II pilot serving in many major theaters during a 5 1/2 year engagement. Among his citations was the Purple Heart. He was one of the founders of Paradise Valley Country Club and continued membership until his demise. Mr. Staley is survived by his Wife, Mary Ruth, son, Larry P. (Bucky) his spouse, Kathy, granddaughters, Kelly and Kristen. Family services have been held. Contributions may be made to favorite charities. www.almooregrimshaw.com