Ralph Eugene "Gene" Stinson

Ralph Eugene “Gene” Stinson went to be with the Lord on Friday, October 7, 2022.

Gene is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years Betty Jean Oxford Stinson; his adoring children Regina Stinson Adams (Britt) and Timothy Eugene Stinson (Aimee); grandchildren Lily Adams, Abby Adams, and Chase Sornson; sister Connie Rollins; brothers-in-law Lamar Oxford and David Oxford; sisters-in-law Linda Dillard (John) and Susan Riddlebarger (Jeff); many cousins, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his mother Betty Whisenant; stepfather Calvin Whisenant; mother-in-law Willie Oxford; father-in-law Bud Oxford; sister-in-law Bobbie Oxford; brother-in-law Charles Rollins; special grandparents Jim and Matt Clayton Stinson.

Gene was born on April 11, 1940 and grew up in Whitfield County in the Pleasant Grove/Waring Community. He attended North Whitfield High School. Gene began his career in the automotive industry in Dalton working for numerous employers such as Cowan Auto, Poston Motors, and the Lincoln Mercury Dealership, before starting his own businesses. He owned and operated the Union 76 station at Bryman’s Plaza and then later continued his love for cars in the auto racing business. He was a racecar driver for many years before deciding to stop racing and transitioned into a career in the racing business. He owned and operated Gene’s Racing Parts for many years servicing dirt tracks in the North Georgia and Tennessee Valley area with fuel, tires, and equipment. He made many wonderful friends in his business where he was universally known for his kindness, love, and generosity. He continued following the sport until his death. Gene loved when friends stopped by to get advice about racing or just stopped by for almost daily chats. Gene’s favorite activity was spending time with his family who loved him immeasurably.

Services for Gene will be held on Monday at 12 noon in the chapel of Love Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Poplar Springs Baptist Cemetery.