Eugene George Stansbery

Eugene (Gene) George Stansbery, 68 and longtime resident of Friendswood, passed away on August 11, 2023. Born to Jack and LaVerne Stansbery in Texarkana, Gene’s earliest memory was of a nighttime launch from Cape Canaveral, which spawned his lifelong passion for space. A proud graduate of Angleton High School, he recently connected with dear friends at his 50th class reunion. Gene received his B.S. and M.S. in Space Physics from University of Houston.

A scientist and explorer, Gene traveled to every continent on Earth and reached beyond the stars with his research and experiments. His work began with atmospheric instrument development, sonic boom analysis, and ultimately became NASA’s Orbital Debris program manager, recognized as an expert in “space garbology”. Throughout his career, Gene received many honors including the Antarctic Service Medal, NASA’s Exceptional Service Medal, and was the namesake for the Eugene Stansbery Meter Class Autonomous Telescope (ES-MCAT) on Ascension Island. Gene’s list of accomplishments, Been There-Done That, is extensive.

With a creative mind, artistic vision and an attention to detail, Gene was the ultimate Idea Man. His enthusiasm for adventure led him from scuba diving the depths of the oceans to endless heights flying a variety of aircraft, including his restored Nanchang CJ6A. Gene’s keen eye saw so much throughout his lifetime: capturing his journeys around the world through the lens of a camera, creating miniatures through model building, producing stained glass art, and holding others accountable as a respected tennis umpire.

Gene is survived by his wife of 40 years, Eileen Heath Stansbery and their precious cat, Koi. Gene was blessed with a close extended family: sister Blanche Gafford; niece Sharli Nucker (Jerry) and their sons Rylan & Bryce; his brother Ed’s wife Mary Rains; nephew Jason Rains (Holly) and their children Garrett & Mina; nephew Kyle Rains (Angel) and their son Ryker; father-in-law Berle Heath; sister-in-law Pam Heath; niece Shannon Heath; niece Christine Heath Chowdhury (Nayeem) and their daughter Noorah; brother-in law David Heath (Diane); niece Melanie Heath Smith (Josh) and their children Aiden & Laycee; niece Alicia Heath Rhodes (Ben) and their daughters Layla & Kynzlee; brother-in-law Michael Heath (Marilee), nephew Joshua (Ariana).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ForestParkEast-FHC.com for the Stansbery family.