Wallace "Gene" Eugene Harkins Jr.

Gene was born on June 5, 1945, to Wallace Eugene Harkins, Sr. and Claudine Carter Harkins. He graduated from Taylor High School in 1963, where he was a letterman in both football and track and was regarded by his classmates as a favorite among his peers. Following high school, he attended North Texas State University before earning his degree from Southwest Texas State University in 1967.

Beyond his service in the Army Reserve, Gene spent his entire professional career in marketing and advertising, primarily with Southwestern Bell Telephone Yellow Pages. He was known for his strong work ethic, friendly nature, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

After losing his father during his senior year of high school, Gene devoted much of his adult life to caring for his beloved mother, Claudine. His faithfulness and dedication to her were a testament to his character and deep sense of family responsibility.

Gene never met a stranger. He treasured friendships, both old and new, and will be deeply missed by the many people whose lives he touched. He especially enjoyed attending Taylor High School reunions and cherished every opportunity to reconnect with classmates and lifelong friends.

One of Gene's greatest passions was his farm. He took pride in raising Longhorn cattle and caring for his many donkeys. He was always eager to share his farm, its spring-fed tank, and the joys of hunting and fishing with family and friends.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Wallace Eugene Harkins, Sr. and Claudine Carter Harkins; his uncles, Roy Simpson Harkins (Blanche), Milford David Harkins (Ruby), Vinus Glenn Harkins (Audette), Jesse Keith Harkins (Ora Nell), Edward Blaine "E.B." Harkins (Geraldine), and Harold Elwood Harkins, Sr. (LouAnn); his aunts, Velma Frances Crabs (Lester) and Billye Jean Sherman (Jack); and his cousins, David Ross Harkins, John Keith Harkins, Sara Lu Harkins, Barbara Jean Harkins, Beverly Anne Harkins, Janice Cole Haskins, and Randall Glenn Sherman.

He is survived by his cousins, Lynda Martyn, Douglas Glenn Crabs, Jessica Harkins Shahin, Jay Keith Harkins, Jimmy Blaine Harkins, Jack Wayne Harkins, Harold Elwood "Hal" Harkins, Jr., Effie Lou St. Clair, Jackie Lynn Sherman Tucker, and Penny Gail Sherman Blair, along with many dear friends who became family throughout his life.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff of SPJST Senior Living; Barbara Smith Dike; Patricia and Dale "Bo" Carter, Jr.; and Chad Hendrix for their kindness, friendship, and assistance throughout Gene's life.

A memorial service will be held at Providence Funeral Home of Taylor on Saturday, October 3rd, at 10:00 a.m.