Eugene Thomas

Eugene Thomas born September 15, 1932 to Alberta Rhodes Pittman and Daniel Thomas, Eugene Thomas “Genie Boy” was the oldest of four sons. His parents and three younger brothers Freeman Pittman, Thurman Pittman, and George Pittman all preceded him in death. After the untimely death of his mother, Eugene, at the tender age of six, and his siblings were separated and sent to various relatives. Eugene came to East St. Illinois to live with his Aunt Earlene Rhodes Jones, whom he referred to as Aunt Sister Baby. He was raised by his Aunt Sister Baby, alongside her six children and attended the public schools of East St. Louis. At the age of seventeen, he moved to Charleston, Missouri to live with his maternal grandmother, Addie Rhodes. During this time, he made the decision to enlist in the United States Armed Forces. After completing his tour of duty, Genie Boy returned to East St. Louis where he met his special friend, Mary Louise Mallory and together they began raising a son. Eugene was a meticulous and fashionable dresser, loved to drive flashy cars and travel. He loved being around family and friends. Being the carefree person he was, he moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he resided for several years, then to Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he was employed as an over-the-road truck driver for several years. As the saying goes, “Home is where your heart is” Eugene’s heart has always been in East St. Louis, so finally, he returned to East St. Louis where he rekindled that special bond he had formed with Mary in the late 1950’s, who has faithfully remained by his side until he transitioned from this life. He leaves to cherish his memory two daughters, Karen Lovings Johnson, Rockford, IL, Phyllis Silas, Texas, two sons, Jerry Wayne Lovings, Rockford, IL, and Jeffrey Mallory (Lenitta) Cahokia, IL. One sister-in-law, Nomia Pittman, Sikeston, Missouri. His Loving Companion, Mary Louise Mallory, a special friend, Beulah Howliet, two very close cousins/sisters, Ruby Jones Fuller and Karen Jones Anderson, nine grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.