1926
2017
It is with great sadness we announce the death of Ernest Eugene (Gene, Peek-o) Suggs, who passed into Heaven on November 20, 2017.
Gene is survived by his loving wife of over 69-years, Billie Payne Suggs; their three daughters, Ann Hooks (Ridge), Jan Loy (Rick), and Nan Nance (Bruce); 8 grandchildren; and 12 great grandchildren; as well as countless other family and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, and sisters.
The youngest of eight children, Gene was born August 31, 1926 in Brady, TX. Gene met Billie Payne in December of 1947 and it was love at first sight. They were married in May of 1948 and for nearly seven decades, Gene's love for Billie was known and obvious to anyone who ever saw them together.
Gene worked at Kelly Air Field in San Antonio during World War II as a mechanics helper, then for Frank Craig in Hamilton, followed by Rath Packing Company in Dallas, and finally retired after working at Yellow Freight in Dallas for 18 years. Gene and Billie spent 17 years of retirement in Hot Springs Village, AR before moving to Whitehouse, TX in 2002.
Gene loved all kinds of music but especially gospel, and he was famous for bringing a smile to everyone's face when he whistled. He was a faithful member of the Open Door class at First Baptist Church, Whitehouse, TX.
Visitation will be from 5PM–7PM on Friday, 11/25/17, with funeral services at 1:00PM on Saturday, 11/26/17, at Riley Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Payne Scholarship Fund at Mills County Bank (1005 E. Main St. Hamilton, TX 76531) or Legacy Hospice (1901 Rickety Ln. Ste 103 Tyler, TX 75703
Special Thanks To: Oak Brook Care Center; Legacy Hospice; Open Door Class
.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Riley Funeral Home.
3 Entries
November 24, 2017
Jane Pierce
Billie and family, I am so so sorry for your loss. Gene was an amazing man with a beautiful soul. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. If there is anything you guys need just let me know. Love, Jane
November 21, 2017
Janelle C. Bates
Nan and Bruce, I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family --Janelle C. Bates
November 21, 2017
Bruce Nance
Peeko was one of the most amazing men that I have ever known. He could literally build or repair ANYTHING. He was always ready to offer helpful advice, especially if you would slip him a Snickers candy bar where his wife couldn't see you. Offer him biscuits and gravy and he'd help you conquer the most monumental task (and truthfully, even without offering him his favorite meal). The things he would conjure up for children, and sometimes adults, to do for fun would impress even the smartest engineers. Please show me someone else who could teach a 1 1/2 year old how to whistle. Words can't express how much I love you, Pop, and I so look forward to the day we see each other again in Heaven!
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