Vassar Eugene

Eugene Vassar, Jr, affectionately known as “Gene” or “Uncle Gene” of Tolleson, AZ passed away January 24, 2018, in Goodyear, AZ. He was born January 9, 1951 in Toledo, OH. He obtained a Job Corp certificate in welding and draftsmanship in 1972. He worked for 20 years and retired as a welder/draftsman from the DeVillbiss Company in Toledo, Ohio. Eugene married the love of his life, Aurbera Jean McDonald on April 7, 1972 and they had two children—Eugene, III and Alisha. Eugene accepted Christ at an early age and attended New Hope Missionary Baptist Church where he was an ordained minister. As a member, he was active in the Soul Winning bible study, male chorus, young adult choir and taught arts and crafts at vacation bible school. Eugene lost his beloved Aurbera Jean in December 1998 and later moved to Phoenix, Arizona to be with his daughter, Alisha in 2006.

Eugene is survived by his daughter, Alisha Sellers, and son-in-law Chaunsy Sellers, two granddaughters-- Aurbera and London, and sisters—Mildred Harris and Cennie Elder. Eugene was preceded in death by his son, Eugene III, beloved wife, Aurbera, mother-Catherine Vassar, father-Eugene Rogers, and sisters-Ordella, Narcola, Sarah and Tina.

Eugene faced many health challenges in his life, but remained faithful, independent and optimistic! Eugene was a wonderful father, grandfather, and uncle. Eugene will be remembered for his love for “Aubie and BC,” the Pittsburgh Steelers and Gino’s Pizza----in that order! Go Steelers!

A funeral service will be held at 5:00 pm, Saturday, January 27, 2018 at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, AZ 85338.