Gene Autry Hooks Sr. was born March 11, 1942 to Elbert and Cora Hooks in Foreman, Arkansas. He departed this life September 9, 2026 at the age of 84 years.

Gene spent most of his early years in Foreman born 12th of 16 children. Gene attended Unity Schools in Foreman. He moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma where he met the love of his life, Lillie Mae Guess, they were married July 20, 1962. Their family soon began to grow, blessed with five boys; Gene Jr. Darnell, Jerome, Kenneth and Jermaine.

Gene worked tirelessly providing for his family with love and commitment. His work ethic was strong. His love for family, even stronger. Gene worked many jobs through the years always making time for his family and time together. He retired from Smith Tank in Tulsa after 20 plus years of service giving way to his lawn care service. Gene confessed a hope in Christ and was baptized by Steve Howard and his son Gene Hooks Jr. He served the Lord faithfully as a member of St. John Baptist Church in Sapulpa, Oklahoma. Gene loved and cared for all animals but was partial to his Donkey and Goat. He took meticulous care of his truck and motorcycle, which he was proud of.

Gene is survived by his wife of 64 years, Lillie of the home; four sons, Gene Hooks jr. and wife Joy, Darnell Hooks and wife Pam, Jerome Hooks and wife Linda and Jermaine Hooks; daughter in law, Jennie Hooks, wife of the late Kenneth Hooks; three sisters, Mammie Jones, Ida Favor and Alberta Stewart and husband Ray; seventeen grandchildren, thirty-two great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, son, Kenneth; two great grandchildren, Allana Tomlin and Kyler Williamson and twelve siblings, Elbert Jr., William, Charles, Mose, Christine, Lytha, Wilburn, Betty, Walter, Bill, Katherine and Verda Mae.