Many across campus are mourning the loss of Robert Rex Stephenson, a beloved professor, mentor, storyteller, and friend who spent more than 50 years shaping the college’s theatre program and inspiring generations of students and colleagues.
Born in Indiana, Stephenson came here in 1973 and made it his lifelong home. Over his 52 years at the college, he directed countless productions, taught generations of students, and helped preserve Appalachian culture through original works and adaptations.
Among his most prized contributions were The Jack Tales which brought the region’s folklore to life on stage and became a Ferrum tradition of their own.
To his students, Stephenson was more than a professor. He was the kind of teacher who built stages with his own hands, nurtured actors finding their voice, and gave Appalachian stories a permanent home to thrive. His humility, generosity and fierce belief in the power of art shaped not only the theater department, but also the wider Ferrum community.
On Aug. 23, students, faculty, friends and family gathered for his memorial service to honor a man many described as larger than life. For those who knew him, Stephenson held the role of teacher, mentor, role model and a source of constant encouragement.
“He lived a life that touched more people than words can fully capture,” expressed Todd Necessary , a former friend who described himself as someone who “majored in Rex Stephenson”.
“Rex believed that art matters, our voices matter, and that we each have something unique to bring into this world,” Necessary continued. “In his classroom, his students were seen and heard. He challenged me when I doubted myself, celebrated when things went well, and reminded us setbacks were only a part of the story, not the end. Rex offered his wisdom at just the right time. He lit up the room because of the way he gave so much of himself to others. He believed in people. He believed in stories. He believed that art could change lives, and he proved that in every performance, rehearsal, lesson, original play and friendship.”
Former students and colleagues say Stephenson’s influence stretched far beyond campus. He preserved regional stories, championed Appalachian theater and inspired hundreds of artists to continue carrying those traditions forward.
“Rex didn’t just come to Ferrum in 1973, he chose to stay,” said alumnus Joe Stanley. “For the next 52 years he gave everything he had to the people of this community. While Rex loved Ferrum College, he knew it was the people who chose to live and work and play here that made this community extraordinary. Anything short of a multiple-volume book to describe the influence he had on my life would be an injustice to him. Many of us have the same story.”
Though his passing leaves a deep absence, Stephenson’s presence is still felt in the theatre that bears his name, in the stories he preserved, and in the hearts of students who carry his lessons with them.
“Rex taught me so much about theatre and life,” said Hannah Dix, senior. “My favorite class with him was Improv. He was always so funny, and his character development was amazing to see in person. He was truly one of the greatest teachers of my life.”
Stephenson’s life and testimony was the true embodiment of “Not Self, but others”, and his lessons will echo long after the final curtain. Rex’s spirit is now and forever woven into the fabric of this school and this community, and all that knew him will remember his laughter, his encouragement, and the way he believed in them long before they believed in themselves.
