Born and raised in New Orleans, Gene loved his city fiercely, but his deepest love was proven in it's darkest hour. In August 2005, when Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans and left the city submerged, Gene and a colleague that worked with him at the Sewerage and Water Board did not hesitate. Equipped with only a boat and absolute courage, they took to the flooded streets. For an entire week, they navigated through the debris and rising waters, rescuing countless neighbors and strangers from the flooded streets, pulling them to safety. To those he saved, he was a literal lifeline in a time of despair, a civilian hero who asked for nothing in return. He received a plaque from the mayor of New Orleans for his bravery.
Beyond his legendary bravery during the storm, Gene was known for his quick wit, generous heart, and devotion to his family. He spent his life taking care of others and was always the first to offer a helping hand to anyone in need.
He is survived by his loving family, including his daughter's, Chantelle Farley and her partner Daniel Kirsch, Melissa Gresek and her husband Daniel Adkins, and Samantha Johnson and her husband Kevin Johnson. His grandchildren, Ashlynn Barrett, Sommer Causey and her husband Craig Causey, Joshua Farley, and Salem Johnson. His siblings, Linda Graffio and her husband Peter Graffio, Emily Morales, and Gail Smith; and his great grandchild, Baby Causey. He is also survived by his best friend for life, Jerry Peterson, who carries forward his legacy of courage and compassion.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Campbell and Claude Felix Baye; and his brothers, Claude Felix Baye and Donald Ranson.
Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the visitation at Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home, 4747 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, LA, on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in the funeral home chapel at 1:00 PM. Interment with Military Honors will follow the funeral mass at Garden of Memories Cemetery in Metairie, LA.
