Rex Jerel Higley

Rex Jerel Higley, affectionately known as "The Caboose" by his family, passed away peacefully at his home in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on November 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. The nickname Caboose was given to him because he was the youngest in the family, a name that stayed with him throughout his life.

Rex was born on September 11, 1952, in Brigham City, Utah, to Rhoda Mary (Stokes) and Lawrence Herschel Higley. He moved with his parents to the Burley, Idaho, area in his teens, where he spent much of his life before eventually making his home in Coeur d'Alene in 2021.

Throughout his life, Rex held a variety of jobs, including truck driving, construction, and moving railroad ties. Eventually, he found his place working alongside his father in the family pole yard. What began as a pole yard grew into Higley Lumber, a full lumber yard and custom cabinet-building business. Rex put his considerable talents as a craftsman to work, becoming a gifted woodworker who took pride in creating beautiful, finely crafted furniture and pieces that will be treasured for generations.

Rex had a deep love for the outdoors, especially the mountains. His cabin in Teton County held a special place in his heart, and he never missed an opportunity to remind everyone that the Idaho side was the prettier side of the Tetons. He loved watching wildlife, spending time in the mountains, and visiting his special "spirit tree." After moving to Coeur d'Alene, he continued to enjoy the wildlife that visited just outside his back door, including moose, elk, deer, and turkeys.

An avid hunter, gun collector, and ammunition reloader, Rex enjoyed the skills and traditions that came with those interests. Whether he was working with wood, enjoying the mountains, or simply watching wildlife, he found happiness in the things he loved.

But perhaps one of Rex's most treasured roles was that of husband, father, and grandpa. Rex met his soulmate Lisa Adams in 1998, and the two were married on February 17, 2006. Together, they created a life rich in love, family, and countless memories that will be treasured by those who knew them

Rex adored his grandchildren and could often be found snuggling one of them. He earned the affectionate title of "baby whisperer." His love for the babies was something special, and those moments of quiet snuggles and affection will remain cherished memories for his family.

Rex is survived by his wife, Lisa; his children and their spouses, Kari Rhoades (Steven), Candace Wood (Robert Johnson), and Eric Higley (Diane); and his beloved stepchildren, Cody Hatch and Nick Hatch (Chelsey). He also leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren, Callie, Camryn, Ravyn, Colton, LJ, Jaxson, and Stella, as well as his great-granddaughter, Amelia.

He is also survived by his sisters, Arla Swensen and Janice (Milo) Ross, his brother and sister in-law, Scott (Christy) Adams and Terri (Paul) Krigbaum, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Rex was preceded in death by his parents, Rhoda and Lawrence Higley, and his siblings, Guy, Gay, Dennis, and Buddy.

Rex leaves behind a family who will remember his love of the mountains, his craftsmanship, his appreciation for the outdoors, and, most of all, the love he had for those closest to him. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the things he built with his hands, and the many memories that will continue to bring smiles for years to come.

A celebration of Rex's life will be held in Burley, Idaho, at Morey's Steakhouse, 219 East 3rd N., on November 21, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Rex's name to your favorite charity or St. Nicholas Catholic School.