Kyle Eugene 'Gene' French

Kyle Eugene "Gene" French, 76, of Roanoke, departed this life on Tuesday, August 26, 2014 at his home. He was born on November 29, 1937, to the late Kyle and Sallie French of Pulaski, Virginia. Gene retired from Appalachian Power Company in November 1997 after over 40 years of service. He was an avid fisherman and Hokie fan. Gene helped organize the original Roanoke Valley Bassmasters. He served as President from 1972 to 1974 and was an honorary member of the club. He was a very passionate fan of the Virginia Tech Hokies and "Beamer Ball". In his later years, no matter how sick he was, he made every effort to be at the games. His other passions were working crossword puzzles and watching The Andy Griffith Show and Matlock. One of his joys in life was his great-grandson. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Eddie and Rex French. Surviving are his wife of 55 years, Joyce Hopkins French; his daughter, Kim Briele and husband, A.K.; grandchildren, Amy Briele and Sarah Coleman and husband, Bryan; and great-grandson, Parker Coleman. He is also survived by a sister, Mary Ann Bentley and husband, Stanley; and many nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, August 28, 2014 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem. A cryptside service will then be held on Friday, August 29, 2014 at 11 a.m. at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens in Roanoke. The family would like to express their thanks and gratitude to Good Samaritan Hospice (especially Lori, Chris, and Sarah) and to Dr. Christian Klaus and his associates at Carilion's Peters Creek location. A heartfelt thanks goes to Dr. Klaus. Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com. The French family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, 540-389-5441.Visitation

Thursday, August 28th, 2014 6:00pm - 8:00pm,

John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home

305 Roanoke Boulevard Salem, Virginia 24153

Service Information

Friday, August 29th, 2014 11:00am,

Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens

5737 Airport Road NW Roanoke, Virginia 24012

Interment Location

Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens

Address Not Available