Gene Faxton "Pap" Moody

Gene Faxton Moody, affectionately known to most as “Pap,” passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, at the age of 100. Born on October 7, 1925, in Moodyville, Tennessee, the son of Robert “Edd” and Orpha (Storie) Moody. Gene lived a life defined by devotion to his family, service to his country, hard work, and kindness to everyone he met.

Gene was married to the love of his life, Marie (Jester) Moody, for 75 wonderful years. Together, they built a strong and loving family that remained the center of Gene’s life and the greatest source of pride. Pap was known for his sense of humor, ornery might put it best, as he routinely put a smile on the faces of everyone he encountered.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marie Moody, son, Michael Moody, parents Edd and Orpha Moody, and siblings Mavis Hopper, Pauline Parrigin, Hazel Peterson, Mildred Winningham, Robert Moody, and Carl Moody.

Gene is survived by; his children, Darrell Moody (Cindy) of Daleville and Vickie Rees (Myke) of Daleville; grandchildren Jason Rees (Mandy) of Daleville, Trent Rees (Kim) of Daleville, Kyle Rees (Lauren) of Denver, Meagan Jones (Derek) of Pendleton, and Whitney Crider (Bryce) of Fishers; along with his cherished great-grandchildren Cassidy Rees, Maddie Rees, Rowan Rees, Madden Moore, Maylee Moore, Stevie Jones, Vivee Jones, Nova Rees, Silas Rees, Quinn Rees, Bella Crider, Austin Crider, Kylee Crider, and Myles Crider. As well as his sister, Faye Davis.

Gene proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Staff Sergeant with the 69th Army Division during World War II. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge, where he was wounded in the line of duty. For his bravery and sacrifice, he earned the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal, among other honors. His military service remained one of the accomplishments he held most dear throughout his life.

A dedicated worker and craftsman, Gene spent 30 years employed at Warner Gear before owning and operating Moody’s Upholstery for 25 years. He was also a faithful 75-year member of the Masonic Lodge and a devoted member of The Jar Community Church.

More than anything, Gene loved spending time with family and friends. He had a warm spirit, a welcoming smile, and never met a stranger. His kindness, strength, and unwavering love for those around him will be remembered always.

Gene leaves behind a legacy of faith, patriotism, hard work, and deep love for family that will continue to inspire all who knew him. A special thank you to the staff at Lincolnshire Place for the love and care they provided both Gene and Marie.

A funeral service will be held at 12 pm on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Elm Ridge Funeral Home, 4600 W. Kilgore Ave., Muncie, IN 47304, with Pastor Chris Bunch officiating. Burial will follow in Elm Ridge Memorial Park. Friends may visit with the family from 10 am until the time of the service, on Tuesday, at the funeral home. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.elmridgefuneralhome.com.