Gene Lasater Hellums

Gene Lasater Hellums, born on July 5, 1933, in Cottonwood, Texas, to William and Ruth Hellums, passed away on August 16, 2025, in Ennis, Texas. His legacy is marked by a notable career and a profound impact on his family and community.

Gene began his career as an insurance adjuster with Home Insurance before transitioning to education, where he taught middle school mathematics at Kemp ISD. His passion for teaching was evident, as he devoted years to shaping young minds, fostering a love of learning and a solid foundation in mathematics.

Gene's academic journey was distinguished; he graduated from Kaufman High School and subsequently joined the Air Force in 1951. After his service, he pursued higher education, earning a bachelor's degree from Stephen F. Austin State University and later obtaining a master's degree in Education from East Texas State University. His dedication to education and service influenced not only his own life but also enriched the lives of countless students.

Gene, an enthusiastic photographer with a talent for gardening, found happiness in tending to his yard.  These passions offered him a creative escape and a profound admiration for nature's beauty that he absolutely loved capturing through his camara lens. 

Gene is remembered by his loving family, including his daughter, Julie Moeller, and her husband, James; his son, Gary Hellums; and his grandchildren, Maegan Miller and her husband Nick, Morgan Moeller, and Mandy Wiginton and her husband Jeremy. He also cherished his great-grandchildren: Garrett, Charlie, and Ellie Mae Miller; and Hannah, Brooklynn, Levi, and Gage Wiginton. Additionally, he is survived by his nieces, Carol Lynn Olson and her husband Eric, Cathleen Cade, and Alicia Stanley, as well as his nephew, Darrell Stanley, and his wife Maritza.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, William and Ruth, beloved wife, Peggy Hellums, and his sister, Betty Ruth Cade.

Gene Lasater Hellums leaves behind not just family, but a community that was touched by his kindness, wisdom, and commitment to his profession. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.