Eugene Knight England

Eugene Knight England was born October 24, 1919, to Chester Rodney and Maude Knight England, in his beloved Plain City, Utah. On November 13, 2024, just twenty days after turning 105, Gene returned home to a multitude of family and friends. He experienced a remarkable “long haul” of life during his time here on earth. 

Gene grew up in Plain City, among family and friends. His stories of his early years are legendary. He was the first of four children born to Chester and Maude.  His brother Bill became his lifelong friend. Also, he loved his sisters Rosemary and Carol.  Their family life was happy.  One of his most cherished relationships was with his father Chester. His dad taught him well and included Gene in many of his business endeavors.  Spending time with his dad was Gene’s favorite activity. His mother Maude was his spiritual mentor and taught him to cherish life.  He was loved and taught well in his early years.

Gene met June Daniels when they were attending Brigham Young University in 1938.  They quickly fell in love and were married.  Shortly after, Gene was drafted into the Army. He served in the Pacific, where he fought in the battle of Okinawa.  For his courageous service, he was awarded a “Bronze Star”.  After his service he came home and joyfully reunited with June and their first son, Jeff.  Gene decided that he wanted to join his dad Chester and his brother Bill, in the trucking business.  Hence the company was named “C.R. England and Sons”.  That set the stage for the creation of a business that would dutifully serve countless customers, enrich the lives of thousands of employees, and bless the England family.  As the company grew, so did their family. In addition to Jeff, they had five more sons: Dan, Rod, Dean, Todd and Corey.  All joined their father working in the business.  Gene’s example of working harmoniously with Bill, set a great example for his sons. Gene loved that he could work with his boys and pursue his passion of building a successful trucking company.  This was a dream come true for Gene and June!   


Although never expecting accolades Gene received honors from many in his industry, his state, the city and the institutions and charitable causes he supported. He was giving and charitable in a quiet way. His simple acts of service included snow removal of his neighbors walks and providing financial assistance to those in need around him.


One of Gene and June’s toughest challenges of life came when their son Rod lost his battle with numerous health challenges brought on by diabetes, when he was 43 years old. Rod set a wonderful example of fortitude and spirituality for his entire family.


Gene was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served in many callings during his life and added his special touch to each assignment. One of his favorite callings was the last he held, Sacrament Meeting greeter. This opportunity allowed Gene to display his warm personality to all who attended. In his later years he became even more vocal about his love of the Savior, his family and friends. Although never known as a singer he would spontaneously begin to sing some of his favorite hymns. He also adopted the phrase from President Nelson, “Think Celestial” as his calling card.

His friend and loving companion June passed away in 2009. After such a happy relationship, he longed for continued companionship. In 2010 he married Dorothy Nielsen England. They spent nearly 10 happy years together, prior to her death in 2020. He then married Donna Symes England. She and Gene had known each other for over fifty years. Donna was a compassionate caregiver and companion. Often, she read to him, and they especially enjoyed sitting on their patio swing which oversaw the city. Gene was very blessed to have Dorothy and Donna in his life.


Gene developed a multitude of lasting friendships throughout his life. Some of his most cherished friends were Allyn and Connie Mahoney. Together, they enjoyed many wonderful road trips and other experiences together. His life has been richly blessed by their friendship.


Gene is survived by his sons Jeff (Pat), Dan (Jan), Dean (Kim), Todd (Jeannette), Corey (Carrie), daughter-in-law Rowena and his wife, Donna. He has 35 grandchildren, 88 great grandchildren, and 6 great, great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his eternal companion June, his parents Chester and Maude, his brother Bill, his sisters Rosemary Lee, Carol Skeen, his son Rodney, a grandson Riley, a great grandson Maximo Cope, and wife, Dorothy.


The family would like to express special appreciation to Gene’s caregivers - Misinale Mahe, Mele Beverly Toutai, and Kuulei Tukuafu. Their loving care for Gene during his final months was a glimpse into Heaven for him.


Funeral Services will be held Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 11:00 am at the Mount Olympus Stake Center, 4176 S Adonis Drive (3950 East). A viewing will be held Saturday morning from 9:30 until 10:45 am and Friday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the same location.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the charity of your choice.