Gene Doyle

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gene Doyle, age 76, of Skene, Mississippi, who departed this life on May 7, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Gene’s unwavering spirit and joyful heart will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A visitation honoring Gene will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at Ray Funeral Home from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, providing an opportunity for friends and family to gather and reflect on the life of this remarkable man. Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life Service will commence at 1:00 PM, celebrating the fullness of Gene’s life and the memories he created. A Graveside Service will follow at the North Cleveland Cemetery, where we will lay him to rest.

Gene was born on May 28, 1948, to Edgar Earnest Doyle and Dixie Belle Grimes Doyle Shaffer in Cleveland, Mississippi. He devoted his life to the community of Skene, where he attended Skene Elementary School and Shaw High School, laying the foundation for a life filled with dedication and passion. On September 22, 1972, he married his beloved wife, Robbie Mathis Doyle, and together they celebrated 52 wonderful years of marriage, filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support.

Gene began his remarkable career at Gaines Oil Company, where he dedicated 47 years before embarking on the journey of self-employment. Gene was not just a hardworking man; he was an outdoorsman at heart who cherished the memories made while hunting at the Benoit Hunting Club in which his father-in-law was the cook, a place that held a special significance for him and his family. In addition to his love for the outdoors, Gene was an avid reader, a passionate gun enthusiast, and a skilled pilot. His love for flying brought excitement to many, Mrs. Robbie said, "He was good at it”, and he was known for sharing the thrill with everyone who wanted to fly.

Most of all Gene was an honorably dedicated Christian, whose love for his family was at the center of his life. He leaves behind his loving wife, Robbie, daughters Tonya (Richard) Doyle Youree of Murfreesboro, TN, and Kayla Doyle of Skene, MS, as well as his cherished grandchildren, JC, Shontae, Tristan Youree, and Reagan Mangialardi. He is also survived by his stepsister, Tammy Shaffer.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Dixie, stepfather, O.T. Shaffer, and his beloved siblings: Claude, Aubrey Doyle, Bertha “Sis” Braswell, and Christine “Tine” Peel.