Willis "Gene" Eugene Largent

Willis "Gene" Eugene Largent, 73, passed away peacefully at his home in Vandalia, MO at 5:46 AM on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. He was surrounded by his loving family at the time of his departure, where he embraced his faith as a Christian and left this world to become a Warrior of God.

A memorial gathering in honor of Gene will be held on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Waters Funeral Home, located at 500 S. Main Street, Vandalia, Missouri, 63382.

Willis was born on January 21, 1952, in Wellsville, MO the son of Sherwood and Mable (Campbell) Largent. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Catherine "Cathy" Mosley on May 17, 1969, in Vandalia, MO.

Family was everything to Gene. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, creating a legacy of warmth and compassion. He is survived by his devoted wife, Cathy Largent of the home, and his children, Lisa Berlin (John) of Arnold, MO Joseph Largent (Stephanie) of Center, MO; John Largent (Tina) of Center, MO; and Sarah Boston (John) of Vandalia, MO. His love extended through generations, as he leaves behind his grandchildren, Nichole Husky (Derrick), Jared Berlin (Sam), Jordan Largent (Erica), Allison Largent, Josiah Largent, Joey Largent, Nevaeh Largent, Jacob Largent, Autumn Largent, Solomon Largent, Kaylein Wilson, and Ian Boston. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Paisley, Rhett, Brelynn, Julian, Tatum, Chase and two on the way.

Willis is also survived by his sisters, Virginia Howdeshell of Vandalia, MO, Mary Eskew of Vandalia, MO, Dorothy Largent of Mexico, MO and Barbara Hawkinson (Marion) of Farber, MO. Gene was preceded in death by his parents and his grandson Jessie Berlin. He also mourned the loss of his brothers Charles, Bill, Earl, and James Richard Largent.

Gene dedicated an impressive 42 years of his life to the Harbison-Walker Brick Plant in Vandalia, where he built not only a successful career but also lasting relationships with his coworkers. He was known for his unique personality, distinctively different in his own way, and his ability to make and fix anything, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit that many admired.

Gene enjoyed various hobbies, including fishing, mushroom hunting, and spending time at the farm tending to his orchard and shrimp ponds. One of his cherished traditions was hosting the annual shrimp fest, further illustrating his commitment to sharing joy and love with his family.

Gene's legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. His unwavering love for his family and his unique spirit will be deeply missed.

Memorial contributions may be made to Cathy Largent, to help with funeral expenses, in care of the Waters Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be made to the family and video tribute viewed on Gene's memorial page at www.watersfuneral.com