Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Eugene Rey Obituary
Eugene "Big Gene" Rey has gone to serve the Lord on January 23, 2010 at the age of 49. He is preceded in death by his father Jose L. Rey. Gene passed away in Los Angeles, CA of a sudden heart attack. He was a graduate of Holmes High School and he performed at the Melodrama Theater. He left to L.A. in hopes of following an acting career. He appeared in several commercials, music videos, comedy skits, and movies. He loved living in L.A. California. Gene is survived by his mother Frances Rey Ramirez, brothers Joe Rey (Gloria), Armando Rey (Sylvia), Adolph Flores Jr., as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will begin Monday, February 1, 2010 at 1pm with a rosary to be recited at 7pm. A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, February 2, 2010 at 10am at San Juan de Los Lagos Catholic Church with interment to follow at San Jose Burial Park. Services courtesy of Castillo Mission Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Eugene Rey
Fayetta Thannisch
January 27, 2023
Sweet memories of Gene on the anniversary of his passing. God bless him and keep him.
LUCIA JORDAN
February 20, 2010
MIS CONDOLENCIAS A LA FAMILIA DE EUGENE REY QUE FUE UNA MUY LINDA PERSONA,Y UN GRAN SER HUMANO SU MUERTE NOS TIENE SUMAMENTE CONSTERNADOS ES INCREIBLE SU DESAPARICION, YA QUE ERA MY INQUILINO POR 5 ANOS Y TODOS LOS DIAS LO VEIAMOS AHORA SOLO VEMOS SU AUTO , SU PERRO "HONEYPOT" QUE SALE Y COMO QUE LO BUSCA ESTE EL LO TENIA BIEN AMAESTRADO NO SABEMOS QUE PASE CON EL YA QUE COMO DECIA EUGENE QUE YA ESTABA VIEJO Y ENFERMO. PERO ASI ES LA VIDA QUE DIOS LO TENGA A SU LADO Y MIS MAS SINCERAS CONDOLENCIAS A SU FAMILIA EN TEXAS.
Roland & Richard Ramirez
February 14, 2010
We've known Eugene since our days at Holmes and our days in the Rolling Ridge neigborhood. We use to love to see him dive into our pool and make huge cannon balls. We'll never forget on one occasion, he decided to bounce on the diving board and broke it. Needless to say, our mother was none too happy. We have so many stories to tell about our times together. On another occasion, we went to a MASH Party and Eugene went dressed as a Giant Helicopter. He stole the show from everyone in costume. Our prayers and thoughts go to his mother and family members. We are sadden by his loss and untimely death. I'm sure he has everyone in heaven laughing. You go "Freight Train." Roland & Richard Ramirez
Angie Hernandez
February 5, 2010
My thoughts and prayers go to Gene's friends and family. He always had a smile on his face when he'd pass by me on his way to his dept and I couldn't help but smile back. The breakroom is not the same without him walking through. A sweet man who had the best t-shirts! RIP sweet Gene!!
Albert Cruz
February 3, 2010
My condolences to Gene's family during this time of sorrow. I went to middle and high school with Gene and remember him always smiling and his unique laugh. I am sure he is still smiling from up above.
Jason McNeese
February 3, 2010
I worked with Gene for almost the last ten years. We always would have a good laugh, but we were just co-workers. It wasn't until I became the department manager, and Gene became my assistant that we got to know each other on a more meaningful level. Over the last two plus years, we crossed over from being co-workers to friends. We would have, sometimes, long conversations, in the afternoons, talking about Texas, sports, him getting back into acting, or movies (especially horror films, his favorite as well as mine).
He loved his job very much and tried to do it to the best of his ability. He was a hard-worker, reliable, and I could count on him to do whatever I needed for him to do, but more importantly, he was fun to work with. It was good to have someone like that working here because we tend to work long hours under tight deadlines, and he would relax people with a dumb joke or funny crack.
Since we do work long hours, we tend to spend more time with our co-workers than we do our own family, so our department has become, for a lot of us (especially for the ones from out of state), our second family. With his passing, we have lost a big part of our family, and he will never really be replaced, but he will live on in our memories. He was much loved and will be much missed.
Jason B
February 3, 2010
I'd worked with Gene for almost 16 years. I will most remember his warm, fun loving spirit. You couldn't help but to be happy around him. He went way too soon and will truly be missed.
BRENDA MARTINEZ
February 3, 2010
I WAS SADDEND TO HEAR ABOUT EUGENES PASSING. EUGENE WAS A SPECIAL CLASSMATE THAT CAN NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!! I REMEMBER HIM IN SOME OF HIS SPIRIT WEEK OUTFITS!!! WHAT A CHARACTER!! I REMEMBER EUGENE REALLY UPSET ABOUT SOMETHING ONE TIME IN THE FOUR YEARS WE WENT TO HOLMES TOGETHER...I DONT KNOW WHAT HE WAS UPSET ABOUT, BUT I REMEMBER THINKING THAT THAT WAS THE FIRST TIME I EVER SAW HIM NOT SMILING OR LAUGHING!!! AND THE NEXT DAY HE WAS BACK TO HIS NORMAL SELF!!! MY HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES TO ALL THAT LOVED AND KNEW EUGENE.
Courtland Jindra
February 3, 2010
Gene was such a funny guy. Often his jokes at work were soooo lame they were hysterical. He also had numerous running gags at the office.
He was a great guy to work for, often bringing in food to the staff. He set up a way to recognize fellow employees in our department for a few months, and paid for the prizes out of his own pocket.
His Halloween nick nacks will be missed come October. The entire month he would have stuff hanging on the walls. His own costumes for the holiday are legendary at the big N. My favorite is when he showed up to the office in drag, and yet still interviewed people(we were hiring at the time) without telling the perspective employees he was just dressed up. Poor people probably thought he was just the stereotypical Hollyywood loon.
We'll miss you at Nielsen big guy. RIP
February 2, 2010
Gene, you had a such a sweet spirit and you will be truly be missed around here at Nielsen. Thank you for having such a positive outlook and a kind heart. Rest In Peace.
Tracey Sydnor
February 2, 2010
Everyone in the Class of '79 from Holmes will always remember Gene. Even if you weren't one of his closest friends, he always smiled and said hello. The light in his eyes and his ear-to-ear grin could add a touch of happiness to anyone's day.
My sincerest sympathies and God's comfort to Gene's family. We all know that when the sun shines, it will be Gene's smile continuing to light our lives from heaven.
Meg McGann Ellinger, Kerrville, TX
Jamie Van Beek
February 2, 2010
Gene will always be the "bah ha ha ha" man to me. What a character and nice man.
Carlos Alvarado
February 1, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with Gene and his family. Gene's infectious smile and personality made us all love him for who he was - a man everyone wanted to be friends with. I knew him through mutual friends. I recently found him on Facebook and made him my FB friend. We traded messages about the old days and his "old buds". He will be greatly missed.
Chris & Maricel Zachman
February 1, 2010
Eugene, our dear friend, you have touched so many lives with your winning smile and your larger than life personality. You brought laughter to everyone you knew. So many memories from elementary to adulthood. Favorite Memories - You and Chris sophomore year at LBJ Lake posing as football players in the MFL (Mexican Football League), or cruising in Chris' Grandmother's 1961 Falcon Wagon with no floor boards...man were we glad when the Mustang was finished and of course honoring us as you stood in our wedding in 1981. Eugene, you will be forever in our hearts and in our memories!
To Your Mother and Family - We extend our heartfelt sympathies to you during this difficult time. We are deeply saddened for your loss and pray that God will bring comfort to you now and the days ahead.
Bill & Madeline Copeland
February 1, 2010
I have received sincere condolences from the following who ask me to pass it on to Gene's mother.
Caroline Marshall, Marnie Olson, Steve Hayden (all three are in L.A. California.
Others here in Texas have also expressed their sadness, Jamie Van Beek
in Austin, Sharda Brody in Paris, Texas.
Gene Rey was a person that everyone like, no holes barred! He was a big,
Gentle Person who would give you his shirt if you needed it!
On stage he had expressions that could not be matched by anyone. Early on he learned to listen to what the other actors were saying on stage and react to what they said>>>that alone made him unique!!
We loved him!
Madeline and Bill Copeland
Angel Perez
February 1, 2010
Thanks to so many of you all who have signed the guest book and to chime in and acknowledge a Great, Funny, and Terrific Gentle giant of a Man ........ My Uncle GENE!!!
Your stories can't help but to bring a warm smile to my face as I recall the numerous and hysterical moments we shared. The common sentiment that many are stating holds so true....His Charismatic smile, charm, and personality were so infectious as he would have you laughing and wanting more.....YOU WILL BE MISSED BIG GUY....WE LOVE YOU DEARLY and WILL FOREVER hear your SWEET LAUGHTER!!!!!!!!!
Gene caught pre laugh on my trip to LA in 1999
February 1, 2010
James Prevott
February 1, 2010
To my gentle giant work bro, you will be missed. Remember many weekends down at the Melodrama Playhouse and Saloon, tending bar and entertaining the young Airmen on pass and touristas who wandered in to get out of the noonday sun. Gene would keep them entetained with joke, stories and his thunderous good natured humor. Then when there were no patrons we'd entertain each other with stories about family, life and the occasional dream. He never failed to get me in a better mood. I know he will keep all his friends up there in good spirits. A big hearty laugh BwaHAHAHAHA for you Gene. The stage here is a little less brilliant without you're light on it.
Sharda Brody
February 1, 2010
My first memories of Gene are onstage during The Yellow Rose of Texas at Melodrama Theater in San Antonio. And though I haven't seen him for many years, my memories of him hold a huge heart & always smiling face.
We'll all miss you!
Fayetta Thannisch
February 1, 2010
Gene was a gentle giant of a man. He was fun, outgoing and creative. What a wonderful sense of humor he had. He will be missed. I have fond memories of him from our days together at the theatre. My prayers and thoughts are with his family. You were dear to him. God bless you and give you peace.
Laralee List Wahrmund
February 1, 2010
My deepest condolences and most sincere sympathy go to Gene’s mother, brothers and his entire family. Gene was an incredibly talented actor and comedian. He was a dear friend, confidant, and (for almost three years) our roommate as we began our adventures in Los Angeles. Gene was always so much fun to be around, his laugh was uncontrollably contagious. The world has lost an exceptional man, but I have no doubt the angels have welcomed Big Gene Rey with open arms and are so happy to hear his “Bah Hah” laugh echoing throughout their corridors.
Rick Stogsdill
February 1, 2010
To Eugene's family,
Please know those of us who knew Geno and went to school with him share your loss. It's not an accident that the common thread amongst those who have offered words are Eugene's smile and his ability to make people laugh. I don't know that I ever recall Eugene not smiling or going to whatever length necessary to make people laugh.
Through the awkward teenage years while kids often struggle to define their personalities etc... Eugene had it figured out long before most of us had. He wanted to have fun, didn't take himself too seriuosly and more importantly didn't allow us to take ourselves too seriously either. Geno treated everyone the same, his infectious personality always lightened any situation, and no event- on or off campus was ever complete without Geno.
As difficult as it is to search for words fitting- it's tougher to not still chuckle thinking about how much Eugene's quirks, sayings or doings added to our time attending the "round house."
May God provide the same compassion and understanding for life Eugene's existence provided all of us!
Steven Stoli
February 1, 2010
I first worked with you Gene at Bill Copeland's Melodrama theatre. You entertained so many kids at the children's theatre and then adults at the night time shows. You could play the villian and you could play the sweet adorable guy. You were multi talented... and you were a very good human being.. a friend to all with a big smile.
I know you are already doing shows in heaven...
God bless Gene,
Steven Stoli
Kelly Ryan- Martin
February 1, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with the family in this time of sadness. I hope though, most of all at the end of the day the memory of such a wonderful, gentle giant brings a smile to your face and heart. That's how Gene would have wanted it. He is now watching over all of us. Memories of laughs, shared smiles, and bear hugs that had no equal, ease my sadness today. Thank you Gene for all you shared with us. We love you dearly and will not forget.
Timothy Tschirhart
February 1, 2010
My condolences go out to Gene's family, We graduated from Holmes together and I can still remember his laugh, and he made you smile even during finals..Gene will be greatly missed, the world has lost one of the genuine good guys...
Pam Ramirez
January 31, 2010
Gene was a great talent, a great actor and a very sweet guy. we have alot of memories together, and your right, he is keeping god laughingto quote him " Darlin ya never know" even though I haven't seen him in awhile I always thought that I would see him down the road. I will miss him.
Laralee List Wahrmund
January 31, 2010
My deepest condolences to Gene’s mother and his entire family, Gene was not only an extremely talented performer and comedian; he was a very dear friend, confidant, and roommate (for almost 3 years) as we began our show business adventures in Los Angeles. He was always so much fun, especially since his laugh was uncontrollably contagious. He was an exceptional man who will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.
Grace Cobos
January 31, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with my family. My sister Sylvia, Mima, and my brother n law Armando. I will miss and remember Gene for his kindness and sense of humor.
Grace Cobos
January 31, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with my family. My sister Sylvia, Mima, and my brother n law Armando. I will miss and remember Gene for his kindness and sense of humor.
Megan Flores
January 31, 2010
I loved my cousin and he made me laugh when I was little, my heart goes out to my aunt memaw and cousin mondo and dad. I am happy he is watching over us in heaven now.
Lulu Jasso Francois
January 31, 2010
My deepest condolences to Eugene's family! The thing I most remember about Eugene is his huge smile and how he always made you laugh! Everyone at Holmes love him. He'll be greatly missed.
Julianna Kustelski
January 31, 2010
I went to high school with Gene and will always remember him as "Smiling Gene"...such a joy to be around. My condolences to Gene's family and loved ones during this time of sorrow.
Mark Kuttner
January 31, 2010
God bless Eugene for he has touched the lives of all those around him with his outlook on life, unforgetable smiles, and his great sense of humor. I knew him from high school and have recently hooked up with him on facebook. I will remember him well.
Robert Englehart
January 31, 2010
My heart goes out to everyone who was touched by Big Gene. What a great friend who was always so full of life when we were at Holmes High School. We lost him too early.
ALAN GREEN
January 31, 2010
Eugene will always be the "Crazed Cuban" his wrestling name, "The Baha Man" on Austin Radio, the guy who shaved his head for a $20.00 bet, the friend that took life to fullest to bring laughter to where ever he went. He was in the Cheryl Crow video "All I wanna do." Well Eugene, I think you managed to bring those words to mean "All I wanna do is make you laugh" to everyone you met. I will alway's remember your friendship we have shared. Bless his family in this time of Sorrow. R.I.P. Gene
Alan Green
January 31, 2010
One of my best friends in life, he made me laugh constantly. I remember him as the "Crazed Cuban" his altered ego wrestling name, the guy who shaved his head for a $20.00 bet. The BaHa Man
on Austin Radio, flying man in Cheryl Crow's first video, I can keep going on...But, what I will allway's remember is how happy he made you or I feel. Bless His Family. R.I.P. Gene
Raul Villafaña
January 31, 2010
Please accept my deepest sympathies. I knew Eugene since middle school. He was a great guy with the most infectious laugh ever. Always entertaining everyone around him. He will be immensely missed.
Scott Harben
January 31, 2010
I will always remember Eugene's massive smile, it was infectious. He presence will be sorely missed. In High School he was always a laugh and great guy to be around, he made you smile when times were tough. The arts will surely miss one of its own. I'll always remember the smile.
Peggy Fountain Moody
January 31, 2010
I've known Gene since elementary school. He had a gift for making people laugh. He will be missed.
Liz De La Garza
January 31, 2010
Gene will keep God laughing! I'm so sorry he had to leave his family so early in life. I always remember him laughing. He was a great guy. My thoughts are with his family.
Sandra Midgett-Klingler
January 31, 2010
I was so sorry to hear about Gene. I went to High School with him, he was so funny and entertaining, I never forgot him.
Lisa Laribee
January 31, 2010
I would like to express profound shock and deepest sympathy at Gene's untimely passing. He was indeed a gifted entertainer but, even more so, an endearing family member who loved and was loved in return. All my thoughts and prayers are sent to Gene's family during this time of loss. Rest in Peace my fellow Huskie.
Lisa Allen Laribee
Jan Todd
January 31, 2010
I attended elementary, junior high and high school with Gene. Back in elementary school we used to call him "Freight Train." I really don't think most people knew what his real name was. My last memory of him was our graduation ceremony and the party that followed. Let's just say that Gene was feeling no pain that night. I regret that it's been so long since we've had an opportunity to see him. He was aware of the reunions and I always hoped we would get him to one some day.
My deepest condolences to Gene's family. I hope you know that he was often thought of and spoken about by those of us who grew up with him. Please also know that our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Margo Lumley
January 31, 2010
I went to school with Gene, and we just recently reconnected on facebook. He could always make me laugh. He had a way of making everyone feel comfortable and happy. He will be missed.
George Briscoe
January 31, 2010
I'm so sorry to hear of Gene's untimely passing. I haven't seen him since high school, but I immediately recognized his name. Gene entertained us all at Holmes and made us smile and laugh. I'll never forget that. God Speed, Gene and thanks for the good times!
George Briscoe
Showing 1 - 45 of 45 results
Make a Donation
in Eugene Rey's name
Memorial Events
for Eugene Rey
How to support Eugene's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Eugene Rey's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
