Harlond Gene Hudspeth

Memorial service for Harlond Gene Hudspeth will be 1 p.m., Wed., at St. Cecilia's Catholic Church with Father Paul Eichhoff officiating.

Gene died Fri., April 16, 2010, at the age of 66.

The son of Elmer and Genevieve Rose (French) Hudspeth, he was born Dec. 14, 1943, in Cape Girardeau, MO. Gene graduated from Kennet High School, Kennet, MO; and continued his education at Missouri University earning a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. He retired in 2001 from the oil and gas industry. On Dec.28, 1968, Gene married Janie Teresa Burns in Fowler, KS. They have lived in Claremore for the past 28 years. Gene enjoyed making cigar box guitars, playing the stock market, landscaping, traveling, fishing, hiking in the mountains, and music; but more than anything he enjoyed spending time with his family.

Gene was quick witted, a practical jokester, and had the most infectious laugh. He loved life and was so big hearted. He will be missed so much by his family and friends. To have known him was truly an honor and to have loved him, priceless.

He is preceded in death by his father, Elmer; step-father, Donald "T-Bone" Hall; and grandparents: Robert and Nell French.

Gene is survived by his wife, Janie of the home; children: Dawn McClain and husband, Johnny of Claremore, Ryan Hudspeth of St. Petersburg, FL, and Brandon Hudspeth of Lee's Summit, MO; grandson, Dylan McClain of Claremore; mother, Genevieve Rose Hall of Kennet, MO; brother, Gary Hudspeth and wife, Paula of Columbia, MO; step-sisters: Pam Kline of Missouri, and Penny Weisend of Texas; and step-brothers: Terry and Darrel Hudspeth both of Missouri.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 15186, Austin, TX 78761, or Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Attn: Donor Services, PO Box 650309, Dallas, TX 75265-0309.