Gene “Red” Shelby Floyd, 83, passed away at St Bernard’s Hospital on Friday, June 14th, 2024. Gene was born on April 17, 1941, and was a lifelong resident of Swifton before moving to Jonesboro to be closer to his children and beloved grandchildren.
Gene was one of four children, the son of Ernest and Golda Floyd. He grew up with his brothers and sisters working on the family farm, swimming in Village Creek and enjoying everything outdoors that Swifton and the surrounding area had to offer. He was a hard worker who not only farmed but also retired from Noranda Aluminum with 45 years of dedicated service.
Red had a love for hunting, fishing and being in and on the water. Some of his fondest memories came from being outdoors with friends and family and enjoying nature to its fullest. He was also an avid sports fan enjoying St. Louis Cardinal baseball, everything Razorback and especially Swifton Pirate basketball. His biggest joy and smiles, however, came from his 4 granddaughters who affectionately called him Pawpaw.
A lifelong member of the Church of Christ, Gene was a devout Christian and a member of Swifton Church of Christ before moving to Jonesboro and attending Southwest Church. He was a Godly man who showed and practiced his faith in all aspects of life.
Gene is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Nyoka Floyd; son Preston (Amy) Floyd of Jonesboro; daughter Fara (Jeremy Moore) of Jonesboro; sister Ann Howard of Trussville, Alabama; sister-in-law Joyce Floyd of Swifton; granddaughters Maggie Moore, Presley Floyd, Macie Moore and Whitley Floyd; and many nephews, nieces and other loving family members.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Jim Floyd and Billy Floyd; and his sister Carolyn Cunningham.
A funeral service to celebrate Gene’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday at Swifton Church of Christ with Jimmy Adcox officiating. Interment will follow at Arnold Cemetery. The family will receive friends for visitation from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Sunday at Jackson’s Funeral Home.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Jabo Floyd, Ricky Floyd, Chris Moore, Brian Peterson, Randy Reynolds, Paul Bennett, Russell Wagster, and Shane Cunningham.
Honorary pallbearers will be Charles Ed Dukes, Bobby Higgins, Roy “Smokie” Runyan, Bob Callahan, and Ed House.
Red’s life of love, hard work and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made in Gene’s name to Children’s Home, Parkinson’s Foundation and/or St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Arrangements by Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home.
