I. L. "Gene" Pirtle

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of I.L. “Gene” Pirtle of Forest Hill, Texas. Gene passed away peacefully in Fort Worth on Monday, September 29, 2025, at the age of 85, following a brief illness.

A Visitation for Gene will be held Tuesday, October 7, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Laurel Land – Rose Hill Funeral Home, 7301 East Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth, Texas 76112, with a Celebration of Life starting at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Laurel Land – Rose Hill Memorial Park.

Gene was born on March 8, 1940, in Dublin, Texas, to Ismael Lagene Pirtle Sr. and Nannie Bessie Louise Johnson, both of whom preceded him in death.

He grew up in the Tate Springs “Tater Hill” area of Southwest Arlington, Texas alongside his single mother and brother, Robert. Gene never forgot the support and kindness of the Tate Springs community and its church, Tate Springs Baptist, during those formative years.

He attended Handley High School, where he formed many lifelong friendships. At the age of 40, Gene proudly continued his education and earned a degree in Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration from Tarrant County College. Gene served the City of Fort Worth with distinction as Chief Mechanical Inspector from 1984 until his retirement in 2003. He was a respected mentor, colleague, and friend to many throughout his career.

Gene and his beloved wife, Jo Anna, were married for 52 years. They were devoted companions who shared a love of travel, cultural events, and volunteer work. A man of many interests, Gene enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing pool, golf, drag racing, and attending car shows. He generously gave his time to his community, volunteering with the Lions Club, Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County and the neighborhood watch. Gene served the City of Forest Hill as Civil Service Commission Chairman. Always ready to lend a hand, Gene was known for his kindness and willingness to help others.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jo Pirtle; his brother, Robert Pirtle; and his sister, Linda Parker. Gene leaves behind five children: Kinzie Baginski (John), Dana McGehee, Jason Pirtle (Angela), Bejie O’Doherty, and LeAna Brown. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Travis Cox (Becky), Lacey Graham, Bonnie Kemnitz (Kohl), Jason Brewer (Vivian), and Randi DeRamus (Colton), as well as numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a favorite charity in his memory.

Gene Pirtle will be remembered for his generous heart, sharp wit, and unwavering love for his family, friends, and community.