William Eugene “Gene” Thomas, 70, of Fayetteville, Tennessee, passed away May 8, 2024, at his home at Fayetteville.

Funeral services were held Monday, May 13, 2024, at West End Baptist Church with Bro. Milton Martin and Bro. Michael Hall officiating. Burial followed in Booneville Cemetery.

Eugene, also known as Gene, was born on Nov. 3, 1953, in Lincoln County, Tennessee, to his late parents WG and Margaret Sue Rogers Thomas. Gene was a graduate of Central High School in Fayetteville, and worked in maintenance, dedicating 25 years of his life to working at Donalson Care Center. Gene had a love for playing the guitar which led him to join a band right after high school. As time went on, Gene merged his musical talent with his devotion to God and became a part of a Christian band. His unwavering faith and deep desire to study the Bible led him on a path of further education in theology. Gene obtained multiple degrees, including a Master of Divinity from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. Throughout his life, he served as pastor at various churches and taught Sunday school. At the time of his passing, Gene was an active and dedicated member of West End Baptist Church. Gene was a man of profound introspection, always ready to give of himself and provide heartfelt insights. He was a dear friend to many, cherished by those who knew him. Gene’s commitment to his family was unwavering, making him a devoted son, husband, father, and caring family man.

Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Deborah Finn Thomas; daughters, Heather Miller and husband Daniel, Megan Hall and husband Kenny; grandchildren, Maraya Winsett, Brett (Revai) Winsett, Austin Miller, Caitlin (Dalton) Creel, Logan Miller, Zoey Miller, Sean (Jessalyn) Hall, Rebecca Hall, Nathan (Amy) Hall; great-grandchildren, Temperance, Remy, Roman, Lydia, EllaMae, Noah, and Ruthie Jean who is due to arrive soon; and several cousins and extended family members.

Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of William Eugene Thomas.