Eugene (Gene) Lonnie Goodnight, born March 13, 1940 to Mary Annie Johnson (Goodnight) and Lonnie Goodnight in the small town of Lonoke, Arkansas died on September 28,2023.
Gene started working at the young age of 13 chopping cotton and advanced to a tractor driver at age 15 with Elmore Farms in Lonoke, Arkansas. He left farm work at 18 and went to work for Bill Martin, owner of the Gulf Gas Station. Gene was working for Virgil Camp at the DX Gas Station in Rose City, AR when he received a letter that he had been drafted for the service. Selling everything he had and telling his family goodbye, he got on the bus headed to Little Rock. After getting off the bus and going through their physical, Gene was questioned about what was wrong with his eye. Gene then explained to the doctor that he had been born blind in his right eye. After the exam, the doctor jokingly told him that if he accepted Gene into the military, they would have to accept everyone! Thanks to the prayers of a loving mama, the military sent him home that same day.
He later was employed by Bobby Moody working on diesel trucks and building Sprint Race Cars.
In 1971, he went to work for Otasco and continued there for 16 1/2 years. He then opened and managed his own mechanic garage “Gene’s Garage” in North Little Rock until he was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 1997.
Gene has always been a hard worker and a gentle soul. When it comes to being a wonderful husband, awesome dad, and outstanding grandpa, he was the best of the best. He loved his family and especially his grandbabies. He is survived by his wife, Darlene (Davis) Goodnight of 35 years, a son, Danny (Bo) Williams, a daughter Laura (Glen) Addie, 8 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
A visitation will be held on Monday, October 2, 2023 from 6:00-8:00pm at First Pentecostal Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas.
Funeral Service will follow on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 at 1:00pm at First Pentecostal Church in North Little Rock. Interment to follow at Rest Hills Cemetery in North Little Rock, Arkansas.
Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com
6 Comments
Gene was a very good man and mechanic. He kept my vehicles running with no complaints. I am so sorry that Gene has passed.
Gene was always a very nice friend. I knew him Otasco and working with Tony Davis. I also went to church with his sweet Mother. He will be missed. He sure knew about cars. Prayers and thoughts for now.
Mr. Gene was a true gentleman and kind man. Although we knew him for a short time, his wonderful smile and attitude made him a joy to know. He will be missed.
Ms. Darlene I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for you all. God bless you!!
Darlene, I’m so sorry for your loss. Gene was such a nice man and always had a smile for those he met. I will be keeping you and your sweet family in my thoughts and prayers. Gene will be greatly missed.
A very nice man.. Live people and the Lord. What a friend
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