Emory Eugene Exum

Gene Exum, age 84, of Headland, Alabama, passed away Thursday, June 10, 2021, surrounded by his family at a local hospital following an extended illness.  A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 26, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at their family cemetery in the fellowship room at the First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist Church, 10650 Mcintosh Road, Thonotosassa, Florida.

Gene was born August 18, 1936, to Eugene Buck Exum, Jr., and Annie Laura Bruce Exum.  He attended schools in Plant City and Auburndale, Florida, and after high school he served in the U.S. Army.  He was talented in many professions from an insurance agent, law enforcement, softball coach, general contractor, and even had a saw shop.  Last, but not least, he was an award-winning BBQ chef and Master Judge with the Kansas City Barbeque Society.  He owned Big Gene's BBQ and did the catering that he loved so much.

He was a faithful and devoted Christian and always a member of the Church of Christ wherever he might live.  Currently that is at the Enon Church of Christ in Alabama.  He was a loving man who never passed up an opportunity to help anyone in need.

He is preceded in death by his father E.B. Exum; his mother Ann Exum Howard; and his daughter Janice (Janie) Exum MacQueen.

Survivors include his wife Ruby of 59 years; his children Deborah Lynn Exum Hines (Michael), Lori Anne Exum Hartt, Kenneth Eugene Exum (Kim), Joseph Scott Exum, Ronald Gene Roby (Jeanne) 11 grandchildren; 16 great-grand children (with one on the way); brothers  Douglas Jimmy Exum, Larry Exum (Leslie) nieces and nephews; and many cousins and friends.

He is dearly loved by many and will be truly missed.  Rest in Peace.....until we meet again.

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