Gene Austin Wells, age 84, of Watha, a man of Christian faith, honor, and integrity  passed gently from his earthly life Monday, April 29, 2024.

He was born September 26, 1939 in Pender County, the son of Austin William Wells and Mae Hardison Wells. In addition to his parents Gene Austin was preceded in death by an infant son.

Gene Austin is survived by his wife of 63 years, Kay Wells; daughter, Gina Wells Samia and her husband, Glenn; son, Chris Wells; grandchildren, Nicole Wells, Gracee Samia, Gabrielle Samia, and  Graham Samia; brother, Milton Wells and his wife, Linda; many extended family and friends.

Gene Austin was a successful and knowledgeable farmer for all of his life. He enjoyed farming and caring for his cows. With Kay, his wife, beside him, they ran the farm for over 60 years.

He was a devout and active member and deacon at Cora's Grove Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church for more than 50 years. He was an advisor and mentor to many of the pastors at Cora's Grove Church. He read his Bible faithfully every day, reading it in its entirety multiple times. He not only read, but he lived it. Gene was lifetime member of The Gideons International.

He was very generous with all that he had with his family, community, and church.

On most mornings, you could find Gene at Hardees discussing life, God, and current events with his many friends.

Gene Austin was a wonderful husband, father, and papa. He was a Godly, loving, generous, humble, and sweet man. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

The family will receive friends at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home with service at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel. The Rev. Randy Little will conduct the service.

Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Park.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall.

A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.