Gene McCoy

He was called Gene or Papa by those who loved and knew him. Gene had a deep love for God, and for his family and friends. He brought joy to everyone he knew by always joking and kidding around. He greeted everyone, even strangers, with a smile. Gene’s family remembers his boisterous laugh, his good-natured teasing, and how much love was in his heart when he welcomed them into his home with a warm hug. Gene always had something positive to say and never had a frown on his face.

Gene was born at home on 8/29/21 to Willie Carl and Lena (McBride) McCoy in Hodges, Texas. He worked for Atlas Sand and Gravel (which later became Morris Ready Mix) for 40 years before retiring at the age of 84. After retirement, Gene and his brother, Dub, ran dozers and farmed together. Gene loved working and took pride in any job or task he performed. Gene was a member of the Masonic Lodge and North Side Baptist Church.

Gene married Frances Mae Baker 3/16/1940. They were happily married for over 50 years. After Frances passed away, Gene met Alice Benavides at church, and the two were married in 2004. The two of them spent almost 14 joyful years together prior to Gene’s passing.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Frances; brothers, Otis, Dub, and Jake; sisters, Opal Smith, Jim Brawley, Juanita Foreman; son-in-law, Truman Ratliff; and grandson, Monty Ratliff.

Gene is survived by his wife, Alice; daughter, Patsy Ratliff; brother, Bob and his wifeDorothy; sister-in-law Faye; grandchildren Kristy Borton and her husband Bryan, and Cody Ratliff; great-grandchildren Crystal Ratliff Baima, Kayleb McKelvain, Jonathan Ratliff, Taleena Ratliff, and Shelby Borton, and several great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by Alice’s children Robert, John, Amado, and Richard Benavides, and Linda Banda, along with Alice’s numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Pall bearers: James Bailey Foreman, Johnny Brawley, Robert, John, Amado, and Richard Benavides. Honorary pall bearers: Sonny Dick, Scooter Morris, Robert King, Eddie Teague, Ronnie McCoy, and Ricky McCoy.

Visitation will be Friday, January 26th from 6-8 PM at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home on Hwy 277. Service will be Saturday, January 27th at 2:00 PM, at Elliott-Hamil Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made in Gene’s memory to Hendrick’s Hospice, where he received exemplary care.

You may view and sign the guestbook at www.elliotthamilfuneralhomes.com.