Gene Marsalis

Harmon Gene Marsalis, 73, of Summit, Mississippi, passed away on July 1, 2025, after a short illness, surrounded by his loving family at St. Dominic's Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi. Born in Ponchatoula, Louisiana, on July 6, 1951, Gene grew up in Summit, where he lived a life marked by love, dedication, and a strong work ethic.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents, John Harmon Marsalis and Mary Kirby Marsalis, his father and mother-in-law, Paul Dykes, Sr. and Elaine Campbell Dykes, and his grandson, Arrington Wilson.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Rebecca (Becky) Dykes Marsalis, with whom he shared a lifelong partnership built on love, faith, and mutual respect. Together, they raised three children: Micki Jo Robertson (Brian) of Petal, MS; Sam Marsalis (Mattie) of Summit, MS; and Jake Marsalis of Summit, MS. Gene's legacy lives on through his six grandchildren: Joli Robertson (17) of Petal, MS; Ty Marsalis (17) of Summit, MS; Tripp Marsalis (16) of Summit, MS; Ardynn Wilson (15) of Summit, MS; Brayden Marsalis (17) of Summit, MS; and Brantley Marsalis (11) of Summit, MS.
Gene is also survived by his siblings: Martin Hayden (Eva) of Brandon, MS; Martha Roberts of Summit, MS; Marvel Kyzar (Garry) of Marion, AR; Brenda Marsalis of Summit, MS; and Ann Smith (Ronnie) of Marion, AR. He leaves behind his brother-in-law, Paul Dykes, Jr. (Winona), and his sister-in-law, Madge Dykes Johnston (Kevin), along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
A life-long professional truck and tour bus driver, Gene spent his career seeing this beautiful country. His favorite trips were those when Becky could travel with him, sharing in the sights and experiences of the open road. Gene was also passionate about the outdoors and loved passing on his travel expertise to his family. He and Becky enjoyed many miles together traveling with their camper or on their motorcycle, exploring new places and creating memories. Gene was a faithful member of Mars Hill Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon, and was also a proud member of the John A. Quitman Masonic Lodge. Known for his unwavering faith, Gene was perceived by all who knew him as a man of God, a devoted husband, a loving father, and (his personal favorite) a wonderful "Big Gene" to his grandchildren.
A memorial service to celebrate Gene's life will be held at Mars Hill Baptist Church, 6145 N Greensburg Road, Summit, MS, on July 3, 2025. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 1:00 PM, officiated by Rev. Jared Leonard.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to the McComb Miracle League, PO Box 878, Summit, MS 39666, in Gene's memory, continuing his legacy of kindness, generosity, and love.
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