Alvin Eugene (Gene) Avant of Brady, Texas passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2003 at the age of 67 years. Gene was born September 17, 1935 in Fowlerton, Texas.

Gene was a member of the First Baptist Church and enjoyed going to the game rooms.

He was a truck driver for many years and worked for Thompson Texaco until his retirement.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Alvin B. and Elizabeth (Marley); wife, Billie Jean Hairrel; and a daughter, Mary Katherine.

He is survived by his wife Carol of Brady; sons, Michael Henry of Brady, Wesley of Jacksonville, Fla.; a stepson, Junior King; stepdaughter, Jamie Cooley, both of Brady; three grandchildren, Savannah Avant, Jessica Avant and Brian Michael Avant; three brothers and two sisters: Vernon Avant of California; Darwin Avant, Cotulla; Michael Avant, Robstown; June Hooper, Cotulla; and Kathy Avant of Ohio.