Gene Franklin Spragins

Born April 11, 1951, Gene was the younger son of Homer Franklin and Imogene Henley Spragins. Life in Minter City, MS where he spent his childhood, must have been much like "Mayberry", according to Gene's many stories, and he had to have been "Opie"! Long days of hunting with his beloved dogs, Buster, Shorty, and Lula, swimming and bicycling with friends were some of his fondest memories. These childhood friends remained close throughout his life.

Gene enjoyed basketball and track at Leflore County High School where he made lasting friendships. He was a 1973 graduate of Mississippi State University were he enjoyed great times and friendships as a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon.

Gene was involved in ag business from 1974 until his retirement in 2020, remaining with the same company throughout. After 35 years in Arkansas, Gene and Kathy returned to Mississippi in 2019 when he became "Granddad" to adored granddaughter, Palmer, and later to adored granddaughter, Henley. Golf cart rides, ice cream treats, reading a favorite book over and over, and playing in the park were priceless times spent together. He and Kathy often referred to a day with their "little girls" as leaving them "joyfully tired"!

As a member of Broadmoor Baptist Church, Gene was involved in Broadmoor Foundations for new members, served on the Usher Team, and most recently as a volunteer in the Nursery Ministry. He enjoyed his Wednesday Morning Bible Study with the guys, as well.

Most mornings for Gene were happily spent on the Lake Caroline Golf Course with the absolute best golf buddies ever! It was always a good day if he hit well, but an even better one if he and his buddies just had fun!

Preceding Gene in death are: his parents, Homer Franklin and Imogene Henley Spragins; brother, Dr. William Homer Spragins; son, Woodley Franklin Spragins; and nephew, William Marc Spragins. He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Kathy Aleice Gunn Spragins of Madison, daughter, Mary Gunn Prewitt (Reed) of Madison, and precious granddaughers, Palmer Aleice Prewitt and Henley Katherine Prewitt.

Gene never met a stranger, and his smile always made one feel welcome. His quick wit brought smiles and laugher to so many. We rejoice in the assurance that we will be with Gene again.

Memorials may be made to Broadmoor Baptist Church (Nursery Ministry) or to a charity of choice.

"A friend loves at all time...." (Proverbs 17:17)