of Little Rock, AR
November 9, 1955 - December 29, 2024
Doyle Eugene Chapin, Jr. was born November 9, 1955 in Hereford, Texas to Doyle and Terecia Chapin. He was the youngest of five and grew up in a home that fostered a love of life, family and most importantly, the Lord.
As the son of a preacher dedicated to spreading God's word, Gene called many places home throughout his childhood-Vega, TX; Amhurst, TX; Sudan, TX; Gallup, NM; Cassville, MO and Purcell, OK. It is in these places that Gene gained a reputation for building lasting friendships, causing mischief and developing his musical talents.
Gene attended West Texas State University in Canyon, Texas where he studied music and then later continued his education at Lubbock Christian University, studying Bible. He had a desire to learn, especially when it came to developing a deeper understanding of God's word.
It was at West Texas State that Gene met his sweetheart, Tobi. Their love story began just after he was given ten dollars to take out ''you know who''. They were married May 27, 1976 and spent 48 wonderful years serving the Lord together in ministry, raising three kids-Hobby, Holly and Traci, enjoying their 10 grandchildren and creating beautiful memories that will remain in the hearts of loved ones for generations to come.
Gene worked for Tobi's parents as manager of the 7-2-11 Laundries in the early part of his adult life and while he enjoyed his work, he felt a pull to begin full-time ministry. Gene and Tobi made the decision to move their family to Bayfield, Colorado to serve together at Bayfield Church of Christ. Gene spent 17 years putting his talents to work. He was more than just a pulpit preacher that spread the Good News. He put his faith into action and led by example as he ministered to those around the community, becoming involved in as much as he could. In 2007, Gene and Tobi moved back to Farmington where he served at Northside Church of Christ as preacher, elder and in many other capacities. In addition to ministry, Gene was also co-owner of Redi-Door Storage. Throughout his life, Gene impacted countless people, not only from Bayfield and Farmington, but many within the Four Corners and around the globe.
Gene loved people and devoted his life to making the world a better place for everyone. As a jack of all trades, he served his community and family in a variety of ways-baling hay, driving school buses, playing trombone with the local High School band, fixing cars, flying airplanes, guitar picking, serving on the school board...you name it, he probably did it!
In 2007, Gene was diagnosed with leukemia and over the years, faced many other cancers and illnesses. With his wife Tobi by his side, along with the prayers, support and love of family and friends, Gene fought cancer with dignity and inspired many. Throughout his battle, his faith never wavered. He never asked, ''why me?'' but rather, ''what is it, LORD, you would have me learn and how may I turn it into praise?''
In 2024, Gene and Tobi moved to Little Rock, Arkansas to be closer to their children, grandchildren, siblings and other family that lived nearby. He quickly felt right at home and spent many days golfing with his brother, attending his grandchildren's sporting events, worshiping with the local congregation and enjoying his family to the fullest.
Gene passed from this life on Sunday, December 29, 2024 in his home surrounded by his wife and children.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Doyle and Terecia Chapin. He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Tobi Chapin; his son, Hobby Chapin (Tara) of Sheridan, Arkansas; his daughter, Holly Seagraves (Brad) of Little Rock, Arkansas; his daughter, Traci Tang (Nicholas) of Silver Spring, Maryland; as well as 10 grandchildren-Jayden, Isaac, Lilly, Henry, Hudson, Cruz, Claire, Elijah, Micah and Zeke. Gene is also survived by his sister, Lois Brening (John), Linda Little (Fred), Louise Sherrin (Carl), Tom Chapin (Tamy); as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Gene will be missed by those that know and love him but his legacy will carry on. It is safe to say that Gene was welcomed into his eternal home with ''well done, good and faithful servant.''
A memorial service will be held to celebrate the life of Gene Chapin at Farmington Church of Christ, 401 W. 20th Street, Farmington, New Mexico, on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 2:00pm.
Gene and Tobi connected with and supported many children's homes throughout New Mexico and Colorado. In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorial contributions be made to one of these children's homes:
• New Mexico Christian Children's Home-Portales, New Mexico
• Albuquerque Christian Children's Home-Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Manuelito Navajo Children's Home-Gallup, New Mexico
• Four Corner's Home for Children-Farmington, New Mexico
• Mountain State Children's Home-Longmont, Colorado
Sign Guestbook
25 Condolence(s)
Brandi Womack (Sutherlin)
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
One of God’s earthly angel is now in heaven singing with the heavenly angels.
Gene touched many lives here on earth. I was one of them.
Genevieve and Vincent
Saturday, January 4, 2025
It is with a heavy heart that we extend our deepest condolences on Gene’s passing.
As our in-laws, he left an indelible mark on our lives with his unwavering dedication to the Lord, his boundless care, and his unfailing friendliness.
Gene’s compassionate nature and steadfast commitment to serving the community will forever be remembered. His warmth and kindness touched all who knew him, and we will all deeply miss him.
He is now at peace in the presence of the Lord.
With heartfelt sympathy
Janeen “Wheat” McSwain
Friday, January 3, 2025
If there was ever a man that could make you feel closer to God it was Gene! He had the most beautiful voice and sang for Gods glory! Gene led both of my parents going home services. I know mom was there welcoming Gene into heaven and eagerly awaiting him to lead all of the saints in singing praises to our Lord! We love you and pray for you!
Erin Trujillo
Friday, January 3, 2025
Gene was always a man full of life, hugs, and sense of humor. He played with our high school band and always had a funny saying or joke to tell. He never failed to speak to everyone and had a way of always making you feel seen and included. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers to Tobi, Hobby, Holly, and Traci and their families.
Ashley Haga
Thursday, January 2, 2025
I'm so grateful to Gene who was a teacher, mentor, and consistent presence during my childhood. His energy, humor, and kindness were magnetic and energizing to his congregation and community. It is hard to imagine the number of lives he touched. He certainly made a lasting impression on mine.
I can easily recall him making Tobi laugh, giving Traci a hug, leading a prayer, or making someone at church smile with an arm around their shoulders.
My thoughts are with you Tobi, Hobby, Holly, and Traci.
Dennis Foutz
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Gene was a man that listed, lover of God that rubbed off on you being around him , a man that I loved like a dear brother that I never had I will miss you so. Till we meet again!
George Haddad
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
We love you Nick and Traci God be with your family
Tin Emery
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
We moved to Farmington in 1979. Genes father in law owned 7 to 11. Hobby Frazier built a house for Tobi and Gene, later giving it to them.
Gene served the church as song leader and my dad was pulpit minister. Gene installed a water line for the drinking fountain.
We moved away 10 years later with Chapins still there.
Gene will be missed but precious memories remain.
A. Wayne Doudney
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
I haven't seen or visited with Gene in many years, however, I was honored to have met Gene when he was a very young man, and everyone could see then how special a man he was (early twenties). Gene was very important to many. I regret hearing of his passing. Condolences to all of his family and friends.
Marilyn F Heil
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
What a wonderful Christian man. Gene was one of the most Christlike persons I have ever known. Tobi and family I know you find comfort in knowing he is finally out of pain and in his eternal home with Jesus. God bless you all! I love you.
Crystal Norman
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
I came to know Gene through his years as a teacher at Haskell Singing School. His passion for Christ and music were always evident and I looked up to him. Throughout the time I knew him, he was always positive and had wise words to share. While we may mourn his absence on this earth, we can safely rejoice knowing he has received his heavenly reward- a well deserved one. My thoughts and prayers are with the Chapin family and all who knew him.
2 Timothy 4:7-8
Kate Wills
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Though I only met Gene briefly while living with Traci in London, his kindness and warmth left a lasting impression. His inspiring faith was evident and clearly lives on through Traci, whose own faith and love reflect his legacy beautifully. My thoughts and prayers are with his family as they celebrate his incredible life.
Melanie Chapin-Critz
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
To me, Uncle Gene was calm, grace and reverence tempered with just the right amount of silliness. Bless him for leaving this world better than he found it. Chapin family, I hope you feel the hugs I’m sending through the interwebs.
Larry Suttle
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
It was my honor to know Gene and many of the Chapin family. I even got to hear Gene preach in Bayfield. He is representative of a spiritually rich Christian family I have envied through the years. As one blessed with a great heritage he passed it on and was a tremendous blessing to so many!
David & Debby Tillman
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
We Love you Gene and we will dearly miss you and your warm loving smile. We are so thankful we had the opportunity to travel to Little Rock and visit in November. The world has lost a wonderful man but heaven has gained another angel.
Rodger Chaffin
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
I was privileged to work with Gene at Bible camp many years ago, but I will always remember his faithful service, and tender heart. His love for life was a wrapped in his love for the Lord.
Choong & Song Hwang
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Eugene is my first American friend and my classmate at LCU back in 1978. He is genuine Christian and friend. My first son was born in Lubbock, TX and I named him Eugene. He and Tobi showed us what is Christian friendship is. We love you and will miss him. Pray God's peace and comfort for all of you.
Bryant and Janell Roundy
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
A wonderful man..always full of joy and love...He will be missed
Dean and Carol Ezell
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Gene is my 1st cousin. Gene’s mother, oldest girl sibling, is sister to my mother, youngest girl sibling.
I will miss him.
Philip and Dolores Griego
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
We love you and you will be missed, thank you for your countless hours of love and support. Our hearts will be forever grateful.
James Beaver
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
You meant the world to our family. Thank you for being a true example of a servant.
Gwenda Self
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
My heart hurts for the family but my spirit soars for Eugene as he is now home with God and we will see him again when we go home. Eugene is a wonderful example of faith, love and devotion to all of us who were touched by his life.
Fred and Linda Little
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
What an honor to be one of Gene’s sisters. He has been a role model living his life to honor God and showing family
Solomon E Jones
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
I will miss Gene encouragement, song leading, spiritual leadership and his example of loving his wife and family.
Ladonna Bingham
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
I met Gene and his family while they served the Purcell, Okla church. Gene and I spent much time together throughout his Senior year in HS. Youth rallies, movies, gospel singings, worship and gospel meetings. He took me on my first motorcycle ride( of course it was a dirt bike) and Airplane ride in his Cessna. We sang for weddings together. I loved singing with Gene, he could sing any part.
Gene was a wonderful Christian man and a special person to so many of us.