Everett Eugene "Gene" Thomas, 84, of rural Perry passed away peacefully at 1:35 pm Friday, February 5, 2021, at his Pike County home with his wife and daughter at his side. Gene was born April 14, 1936, in rural Mt. Sterling, Illinois the son of Everette and Corrine Keylor Thomas. He grew up in rural Versailles and on May 19, 1956, he married Judith Diane Albers at her rural Bluffs home. Gene is survived by his wife of 64 years, Judith; his daughter, Vonna Park; and his two brothers, Lyle (Pat) and Lozelle (Larry the story-teller) Thomas and wife Shirley; a special sister-in-law Karrie Hutton; various nieces and nephews as well as his aunt Loretta Hall, aged 104, of Mt. Sterling. He was preceded in death by his parents Everette and Corrine Thomas; his baby sister Irene Plunkett and her husband John; and a brother-in-law, Kenneth Hutton. Gene worked at Delta Tank in Beardstown and ran a filling station in Versailles before settling into his long-time vocation as a farmer in rural Pike County from which he retired just two years ago. His daughter was the highlight of his life as anyone can attest who listened to his stories. If the story wasnt about Vonna it was his 6,500-mile, three-week Harley Davidson trip to California when he was 17 and Lyle 14 (too young for a license.) He took great delight in showing his people his motorcycle hat and leather jacket. As he always said, I can get the jacket on I just cant zip it. As a young husband and father, he engaged in a detailed study of the Bible which convinced him that Jehovahs Witnesses taught Bible truth and were the faith for him. He was an active member right up to the end sharing the Bibles beautiful promise of a paradise earth, even discussing his faith with his wonderful and caring hospice team. Judy and Vonna will be forever grateful to that team for their care and guidance! A streaming memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorials are suggested to The Kingdom Hall of Jehovahs Witnesses (Beardstown) or Blessing Hospice. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent online at buchanancody.com.