Eugene "Gene" Sexton

SEXTON

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we remember the life of Eugene “Gene” Sexton, a remarkable man who passed peacefully at home on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at the age of 90. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Gene lived a life defined by hard work, faith, and unwavering dedication to his family.

Born January 25, 1935, in Madison County, he was a son of Edmund Sexton and Ethel (Schwartz) Sexton. Gene spent 36 proud years with Navistar, building a career that reflected his strong worth ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. Known by many as “the Tomato Man,” he had a knack for turning effort into opportunity – whether selling cars, flipping houses, or pursuing his many enterprising ventures. He found joy in the excitement of horse racing and was always eager to share a story, a laugh, or a bit of wisdom earned through experience.

A faithful and longtime member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, Gene lived his faith quietly but deeply, guided by values of humility, generosity, and service. Above all else, he was a family man. Alongside his beloved wife of 65 ½ years, Darlene (Snodgrass) Sexton, Gene stood as a true patriarch of the family – steadfast, loving, and endlessly supportive. Together, they built a legacy rooted in love, resilience, and togetherness.

Gene will be remembered for his warm smile, his determination, and the way he made those around him feel cared for and encouraged. His life was a testament to the power of faith, family, and hard work, and his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Darlene; daughters Gina Sexton and Deanna (Clayton) Henderson; grandsons Johnathan, Larry, and Joe (Bridgette); great-grandchildren: Bailee, Michael, Mason, Madison, and Trevor; siblings: Marilyn (Merle) Isaacs, Dora Kovac, Ethel Sexton, and John Sexton; numerous nieces and nephews; brothers-in-law Gene Brandenburg and Leroy (Mary) Snodgrass; as well as furry grand-babies Zuri and Buster.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents Edmund and Ethel; son Michael Lee Sexton; granddaughter Ginger; siblings: Carolyn (Ray) Miller, James Sexton, Libby Brandenburg, Leo (Janie) Sexton, Pat (Vickie) Sexton, Leah Ann (Alan) Raub; sister-in-law Geneva Sexton.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, beginning at 12:00 Noon, in St. Patrick Catholic Church, 61 South Union Street, London, Ohio 43140 with Father Slawomir Siok officiating. Interment will follow in St. Patrick Cemetery.

Memorials in Gene’s name may be sent to benefit either St. Patrick Catholic Church at the address provided above, or to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140, where online condolences for the family are encouraged to be shared online at www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.