Fordie "Eugene" McEntire was born on February 1, 1945 to Larue and Voleta (Youngblood) McEntire in Sayre, OK. He passed on February 14, 2026 at the age of 81 years and 13 days.

Eugene grew up in Sweetwater, OK along with his brother Richard. He attended Sweetwater Schools and graduated with the class of 1963. After high school, he briefly attended Panhandle State University. Eugene made his home in Sweetwater. On July 12, 1978, he married the love of his life Pamela Welch. Eugene was a talented man with many skills. He farmed, raised multiple animals, worked at the cotton gin, was a fertilizer applicator, and owned and operated a feed store to name a few.

Eugene was a board member of the Roger Mills County Fair Board for many years. He was very passionate about this position and always did it for the kids. He was an active member of the Sweetwater Assembly of God. Eugene loved the outdoors whether it be spending time in his garden, fishing, camping, or raising his many, many animals. He was loved by many of his friends and was known to talk on the phone with them for hours. Eugene was not afraid to let you know his opinion on a situation. He would start the conversation out with " I am going to give you a little advice and you can take it for what it is going to cost you." Later in his life, Eugene always had a cure and advice to offer which included many of his home remedies.

He is preceded in death by his parents Larue and Voleta McEntire, brother Richard McEntire, and son James Welch.

Eugene is survived by his wife of the home Pam McEntire; son Joel Welch and wife Robin of Tyler, TX; nephew Randy McEntire and wife Crystal of Sweetwater, OK and their children Chloe Sue and Rance McEntire; Darren York and Family of Hydro, OK; Joquetta Thompson and family of Sweetwater, OK; grandchildren Caitlyn, Dylan, Hunter; three great grandchildren; sister-in-law Phyllis Abernathy and husband Randy of Weatherford, OK; and a host of extended family and friends.

Donations can be made to the Sweetwater Fire Department.