On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, Gene Trotter Standridge left the arms of his loving family and was received into the arms of his Lord and Savior. Gene was 86 years old. His life began on May 13, 1940, in Cherry Valley, Arkansas. He was born to parents Gilbert Dewitt Standridge and Marguerite Elizabeth Jenkins Standridge. Awaiting Gene in his heavenly home were his brother, Gilbert Ray Standridge of Cascilla and his sister, Margaret Ann Standridge Tillman of Tillatoba. Gene married Lillian Lea Bailey, the one who held his heart, on August 13, 1966. Their lives were forever blessed and enriched by the precious gift God gave them, a daughter, Gena Lea. 

Gene achieved a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture at Mississippi State University. At a young age Gene shouldered the immense responsibility of managing the family farm. His life was dedicated to his family, farming and raising cattle. He was also a patient mentor to many young farmers and enterprising young people. Gene was a lifelong, faithful member of Tillatoba Methodist Church. He participated in numerous civic organizations and he served on the boards of Yalobusha County Hospital, Tallahatchie Valley Electric Power Association, Farm Bureau and Tillatoba Water Association. Gene played sports in his younger years and enjoyed all sports throughout his life. He was a devoted fan of Mississippi State University athletics and especially loved attending the games, cheering on his beloved Bulldogs. 

The celebration of Gene’s life will be Saturday, August 22, at McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service in Grenada, MS, at 4:00 PM. The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM until service time. Interment will follow in the Oakland Cemetery. 

Those honored to serve as pallbearers include Bart Robinson, David Robinson, Casey Cockerel, John Jennings, Phillip Jennings and Nick Standridge.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.mckibbenandguinn.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service in Grenada, (662-307-2694).