Gene Weldon Lawler

Gene Weldon Lawler age 96 of Gilmer, Texas passed away peacefully on February 9, 2025, at his place of residence, Royal Estates in Wichita Falls, Texas. He was born on July 13, 1928, to Sim Roper Lawler and Velma O’Letha Adams and was raised by his stepfather Dan Norwood and his mother Velma. 

 Gene was preceded in death by His wife of 58 years, Sarah Jeanelle Shields; his son, Daniel O’thel Lawler, and his brothers, Aubrey O’thel Lawler, James Richard Lawler, and Billy Joe Lawler. He is survived by his daughters and sons in law, Nelda and Dave Preston, Norma and Bobby Melton, Peggy and John Troublefield; eight grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren and many other beloved family members and friends. 

 Gene was raised in Holliday, Texas and graduated from Holliday High School. After high school he served in the United States Marine Corps. Gene was a proud member of Faith Masonic Lodge, 1158 where he upheld the principles of brotherhood, charity, and integrity. Through faith and fraternity, Gene Lawler exemplified the values of service, kindness, and dedication to a higher purpose. Gene worked as a long-haul trucker for several companies and crisscrossed the nation for many years. He moved to Gilmer, Texas in 1972. In Gilmer he owned and operated Gene’s BBQ until he retired. 

 The funeral service will be held on March 1, 2025, at 2:00pm at Croley Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park in Gilmer, Texas.