Franklin Eugene "Gene" Wamsley

Franklin Eugene (Gene) Wamsley, 85, passed into the loving arms of Jesus on Saturday, April 11, 2020 at 1:26pm at his home surrounded by his children and brother. Gene was born on December 25, 1934 to Roy and Beatrice (Lee) Wamsley.Gene married Connie Ferguson on May 15, 1953 and were the parents to three children. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, wife Connie and brother Robert.On August 28, 1982, Gene married Joyce Backer.Together, they shared many memorable times with children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Gene is survived by wife Joyce, children Rodney (Connie) Wamsley, Cheryl (Gary) Gardner and Rhonda (Leo) Johnson.Also surviving is his brother David (Nancy) Wamsley and grandchildren: Chad (Tara) Wamsley, Leigh (Chad) Mason, Gregory (Jamie) Gardner, Douglas (Delia) Gardner, Connie Johnson, Bart Johnson and great-grandchildren: Jaden Wamsley, Tristan Gardner, Josie Wamsley, Sofie Wamsley, Adrianna Gardner, Beaux Mason and Nolan Shapiro. During his lifetime, Gene wore many hats, most proudly that of the Illinois State Police for 28 years.Gene and Connie were the owner/operators of E & W Tropics in North Pekin for many years.He was involved in real estate and served as a Tazewell County deputy coroner under Robert Haller.Gene was active in the Palmetto Palms RV Resort community in Fort Myers, Florida serving as board president for several years.He was an active life-long member of the North Pekin First Missionary Church and was currently a Village of North Pekin board member. Gene's family wish to thank all those involved with Compassus Hospice for their loving care and compassion given during his last days.Private graveside services will be held at Glendale Memorial Gardens.A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to North Pekin First Missionary Church or the Village of North Pekin memorial garden fund. Cemetery Glendale Memorial Gardens 18119 Illinois Route 9 Pekin,IL 61554