Eugene Edward Kenley, 85, of Centralia, passed away with his beloved family by his side, Thursday, August 28, 2025, at his home. He was born on October 2, 1939, in New York, the son of Harold Clifford and Sarah Jane (Seaman) Kenley.
Survivors that will remember Eugene’s love for his family include his Fiancée Phyllis Sprehe of Mt Vernon, his children; Donna Jean Harry of Centralia, Kimberly Jane Kenley-Salarpi and husband Angelo of Ca, Mary Evelyn Bullar of Centralia, Jackie Sue Gaston and husband Allen of Richview, 14 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and great-great granddaughter McKinley, sister Shirly Wantland of Plano, and several loved Nieces and Nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Sarah Kenley; sister, Twila Baker, & brother Don Kenley.
Eugene was always a hard worker; he owned and operated Mean Genes resale store in Centralia, retired after over 30 years as a Lieutenant from Vandalia Correctional Institute, & could always be found at estate sales and auctions. When he was younger, he sold his horse Trigger, which later appeared on the TV show Wagon Train. With his snow white beard and jolly demeanor, he would visit Schools, neighbors, and family during the holiday season as Santa. Gene was a devoted family man who made sure that everyone knew that they were loved. This included the extra honorary family members he collected.
Relatives and friends are welcome to a visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. service on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, with Eugene’s family, to offer words of comfort and share wonderful memories, at the First Apostolic Church in Centralia, with Pastor Jonathan Urshan officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his honor to the Donor’s Choice. Online condolences and memories of Eugene may be shared with his family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home is privileged to be assisting the family of Eugene Kenley with his services.
