D. E. "Gene" Kea

Delmer Eugene "Gene" Kea, aged 81, of Eastland, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Gene was born on September 6, 1943, in Gorman, Texas, to Felix Wayne Kea and Vesta Elizabeth (Golden) Kea. He lived a life devoted to service, love, and family.

Gene proudly served in the United States Army during the tumultuous years of the Vietnam War. He returned with a strong sense of dedication to his community, which led him to a distinguished 30-year career with the Texas Department of Public Safety, where he served many of those years as a Texas Ranger-a role he cherished deeply.

On October 27, 1961, Gene married the love of his life, Dorothy June Payne, in Snyder, Texas, and together they raised a beautiful family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Dorothy; his son, Monty Kea; and his daughter, Pamela Jean Chaney, along with her husband, Mark. Gene took great pride in his three grandchildren, C.J. Chaney, Zachary Kea, and Keirstin Anderson and her husband, Jacob, and he will be lovingly remembered as a doting great-grandfather to Maverick Anderson.

Gene was an active member of the VFW and NRA, and he found solace and community at the First Baptist Church of Eastland, where he lived his faith openly and generously. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, including his brothers, Jack and Melvin, who preceded him in death, and his cherished grandson, Matthew Dean Chaney.

Memorial services to honor Gene's extraordinary life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 2nd, at the First Baptist Church in Eastland under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Gene leaves behind a legacy of courage, kindness, and unwavering dedication to family and country. May he rest in peace, forever remembered in the hearts of those he loved.