OBITUARY: Paul Eugene “Gene” Humphrey

Paul Eugene "Gene" Humphrey, 87 of Harrisburg, passed away at 9:48 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2014, at his residence.

Gene was born on July 7, 1927, in Saline County to the late James Robert and Lillie (Walker) Humphrey. He married Rita A. Webb who preceded him in death. On Oct. 29, 1988, he married Rolene (Dallas) Fulkerson and she survives. He was a member of McKinley Avenue Baptist Church in the Master Workmen Sunday School class; he was an avid member of the Shawnee Hills Country Club where he held the honor of being the longest consecutive member. He was also a member of the Harrisburg Elks and the American Legion. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and Harrisburg Bulldogs fan. Gene served in the Navy during World War II. Gene was co-owner and operator of Walkers Cleaners with his brother, Jake.

Surviving family members include his wife: Rolene Humphrey of Harrisburg; daughter: Carole B. (Malcolm) Hale of Houston, Texas; daughter: Julie (Ron) Pickering of New Iberia, La.; grandson: Morgan Dallas Pickering of New Iberia, La.; family friend: Scott Hanson of Marion; sister-in-law: Carolyn Humphrey of Mt. Carmel; several nieces and nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Rita A. Webb; son, Hughey Humphrey; brothers, Robert "Bob" Humphrey and Jake Humphrey.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 8, 2014, at McKinley Avenue Baptist Church in Harrisburg. The Rev. Billy Dye will officiate. Burial will follow in Sunset Lawn Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, 2014, at Reed Funeral Chapel and from 10 a.m. to service time Monday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to McKinley Avenue Baptist Church or Hospice of Southern Illinois Blue East Team. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Condolences may be sent to the family through the obituary page at www.reedfuneralchapel.com.