Gene Howard Boyd

Born in Prestonsburg, Kentucky, on October 15, 1931, Gene was the son of William Bradley and Ottawa (Akers) Boyd. He graduated from Berea College in Berea, Kentucky, where he played varsity basketball and met the love of his life, Mary (Deadrick) Boyd. Shortly after, Gene proudly served his country in the United States Army.

Following his military service, Gene began a long and successful career in sales and marketing while he and Mary lovingly raised their family. His professional journey ultimately led him to more than two decades with Top Value Enterprises, Inc., where he advanced from sales into an executive role overseeing operations. Although Gene’s work took the family to cities across seven states, he never wavered in his greatest calling: being a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great‑grandfather. He remained active throughout his life, especially enjoying tennis and pick‑up basketball with family and friends.

In his retirement years, Gene settled in Houston, where he found a deeply supportive community at Bear Creek United Methodist Church that became like family to him. Retirement also allowed him to fully immerse himself in his lifelong passion for working and creating with his hands. Whether building, fixing, or crafting, this hands‑on creativity was never just a hobby — it was his unique way of expressing love for those around him and fulfilling his sense of purpose.

Gene and Mary shared 65 wonderful years of marriage until her passing. As Parkinson’s disease progressively took away Mary’s ability to move independently, Gene cared for her himself. Even well into his 80s, he continued to lift and assist her through the everyday tasks she could no longer manage. He never viewed it as a burden or considered doing otherwise. His unwavering devotion and remarkable strength were an inspiration to his family and everyone who witnessed them, and they stand as a lasting testament to their beautiful love story.

Gene was preceded in death by his beloved wife Mary; his parents; and his sisters Madge Holcomb, Madelyn Cottrell, and Bernice Miller. He is survived by his children: Gene Boyd Jr. and wife Sissy, Cindy Ward and husband Bill, Jeff Boyd, and Brad Boyd and wife Susan. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren — Jennifer, Stephanie, Blake, Jeffrey, Allison, Amy, and Megan — and six great‑grandchildren — Caleb, Connor, Cameron, Cora, Avery, and Helena.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home.

Those wishing to honor Gene’s memory may make contributions to Bear Creek United Methodist Church in Houston, TX, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org/