Gene Kline

Born on January 13, 1947, in Richmond, Virginia, Gene lived a life defined by love, compassion, and quiet strength. A child of the 1960s, she carried the spirit of that era with her throughout her life, standing as an advocate for the rights of women and minorities and living with a deep sense of fairness and empathy.

Gene was a trailblazer in her own right, founding the first woman-owned real estate agency on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Yet of all her accomplishments, there was no role she cherished more than being a mother and grandmother. Her family was the center of her world, and she poured herself into it fully.

She had a gentle, giving heart that extended far beyond her family. A true animal lover, Gene never turned away a stray—if she found a cat or dog in need, she made sure it was cared for, often bringing it home or finding it a safe place to belong. She found joy in the simple beauty of nature, especially in watching birds, and carried a creative spirit that showed itself in her talent for painting, particularly watercolors.

Gene also had a gift in the kitchen. She loved cooking for those she cared about and had a remarkable ability to create something delicious out of whatever she had on hand. Her lasagna and Brunswick stew became family legends—meals that brought people together and created lasting memories.

Those who knew Gene will remember her for her kind heart, sincerity, and selfless nature. She had a way of making people feel seen and cared for, whether they were family, friends, neighbors, or coworkers. She was deeply loved and will be deeply missed.

A woman of faith, Gene lived her life as a reflection of her beliefs, embodying the teachings of Christ through her actions, her compassion, and her unwavering love for others.

She is survived by her brothers, Elvin Ward and his wife, Teresa, and William A. Ward and his wife, Akinyi; her children, Howard Monroe Baisden III (Trip) and his wife, Melissa (Missy), and their children, Harrison and Remington; Ashley Burnette and her husband, Steven (Steve), and their children, Kennedy, and Jordan and his wife, Bella, and their son, Jack; Charles Matthew Kline (Matt); and Lindsey Kline and her daughters, Charley Kline and Teagan Bowman.

Her love lives on in all who knew her, and her presence will be felt always.