Gene Edward Plyler

Gene Edward Plyler, known to family and friends as Farmer Gene, passed away on November 7, 2025, at the age of 78. Born in the Athens Community of Northern Howard County on May 4, 1947, Gene lived a life marked by adventure, creativity, faithfulness, and service. 

At a young age, Gene served in the Army and was deployed to the Korea DMZ in 1967. The following year, he assisted with Riot Control in Washington D.C. following the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. As a Disabled Veteran, Gene was grateful for the excellent medical care he received at the John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital in Little Rock.

As a Harley Davidson enthusiast, with an adventurous spirit, Gene enjoyed the freedom and independence of riding on the open road. For decades, he would entertain friends and family with stories from his amazing road trips. Gene was a Charter Member of the ABATE of Arkansas Motorcycle Organization, and he was a member of the Hog Motorcycle Organization. The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally was his favorite annual event.

In addition to motorcycles, Gene's many interests included vehicles, tractors, and woodwork. In addition, he was a self-proclaimed cat lover. His expertise with residential construction and property management allowed him to enjoy a fulfilling career in the Central Arkansas region. He was a member of the Carpenters Union of Arkansas. Gene was a member of the Lawson Road Church of Christ in Little Rock, Arkansas. Gene dearly loved his church family, especially the minister, Joel Lewis. 

Gene is survived by his sister, Jo Ann Thomas, a daughter, Leah (Mike) Dumas, and two grandchildren, Payton Dumas and Reagan Dumas. He also leaves behind nieces Rae (Gary) Dowdy and Kim (Joe) Darling, great-nieces Addison Dowdy and Drew Dowdy, and great-nephews Brison (Brooke) Darling and Joseph Darling.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Jonas Charlie Plyler and Hazel Adell "Tollett" Plyler, grandson Park Edward Dumas, and brother-in-law Gordon Thomas.

Visitation will be held prior to services on Monday, November 17. 2025 from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at Smith Family Funeral Home Chapel- Glenwood.

Graveside Services will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025 at 11:30 AM at Salem Cemetery with Joel Lewis officiating.

Guest Registry can be found at www.smithfamilycares.com