Gene Schofield, 89

Gene Schofield, 89, of Sparta, died Dec. 14, 2023, from heart failure. He was born Aug. 29, 1934, in Bushyhead, Oklahoma, to the late Ulys and Mabel Schofield.

His early years spent in Isabella were filled with the warmth of family life, and he carried these values throughout his existence.

Gene graduated in 1953 from Gainesville High School, laying the foundation for a future of hard work and achievement. Upon graduation, he moved to Kansas where he began a career in the automotive and aircraft industries.

He married Netta, and they had three children: Kenneth Schofield (who is married to Kris), Annette Schofield Graham (who is married to David) and Darrell Schofield (who is married to Carla).

In the mid-1970s Gene’s family grew with the addition of his stepson Ty Ingram during his loving marriage of 47 years to Phyllis Schofield. Together they created a home filled with love laughter and enduring memories.

He transitioned his career to the construction industry, serving as a construction superintendent. He was admired for his integrity and the skill with which he managed his projects. He was an avid outdoorsman with a passion for hunting, fishing and boating. He quickly mastered water skiing after attempting it and showed off often using trick skis and barefoot skiing.

Retirement provided him with the opportunity to return to the land where he found joy in working the farm, bushhogging, planting food plots and being one with nature.

Gene’s life was a testament to the simple pleasures of family, hard work and the great outdoors. His warm smile will be dearly missed.

While Gene’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, his story is one of a life well lived. He will be remembered with fondness and respect as those who knew him continue to honor his memory.

He is preceded in death by his brothers Donald and Robert Schofield.

Arrangements under the direction of Holden Cremation and Funeral Service, Springfield.