December 29, 2021, 85, Goldsboro –
Francis Eugene “Gene” Suggs, 85, completed his earthly work on Wednesday, December 29, 2021, and now rests from his labors at the feet of his Heavenly Father. Gene was born in Duplin County, one of eleven children, to the late Edward Hamilton Suggs and Frances Lucille Forehand Suggs on May 25, 1936.
Honorably serving his country, Gene enlisted in the United States Army and faithfully served for twenty years. He lived his dream proudly serving as a helicopter pilot in the Army. Gene’s valor and skill was recognized with numerous decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Purple Heart. Always dedicated to his country, his patriotism was unwavering.
Following his military career, Gene returned home to the farm where he worked for many years as a custom farmer. He also owned and operated Suggs Auto Sales. Known for his hard work and innate knack for business, he found success in every task to which he put his hand.
Breakfast was always his favorite meal, especially when shared with friends. Many mornings started at the B&G Grill, where friends enjoyed food, fellowship, and Gene’s great sense of humor. Loving sports and his community, an occasion to watch locals play ball at the Saulston and Nahunta ball fields were rarely missed.
Above all, Gene loved spending time with his family and friends, especially his precious grandchildren. All the grandchildren knew that he would light up whenever Anna would walk into the room. She has always been known to be the first of his special grandchildren. Gene was the kind of man who was loyal to his family, took great pride in caring and providing for them, and was filled with pride because of them.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 1, 2022 from 12:30 – 2:00 p.m. at The Pikeville Church, 336 Nahunta Road, Pikeville. A service to celebrate Gene’s life will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with Rev. Mark Whitfield and Rev. Johnny Sauls officiating. Interment will be in Evergreen Memorial Cemetery with military honors.
Gene is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jettye Scott Suggs; daughters, Julie Wall and fiancée, David Crisp, Jr. of Goldsboro and Jill Weisiger and husband, Will of Goldsboro; grandchildren, Anna Wall, Allie Wall, Christian Howell, and Cameron Howell; brother, Bob Suggs and wife, Doris of Pikeville; sister, Montier Savage and husband, Roy of Pikeville; and his half-sister, Gladys Maredy.
The family would like to extend special appreciation to those who cared for Gene with Assisted Care Home Health. We would especially like to thank Rachel Parks and Oleatha Ward with Christian Caregivers, who provided wonderful care for Gene. You were not only caregivers but also his special friends.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or to the National Kidney Foundation, 7413 Six Forks Road, Raleigh, NC 27615. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
