Gene "Tuff" Smart, 83, of Gainesville, MO passed away peacefully at home July 1, 2024. He was born April 30, 1941 in Gainesville to Maggie Smart.

On August 8, 1964, Gene married Julia Harden. They spent 59 years together until her death on October 18, 2023. Gene served in the Army at Fort Leonard Wood and was in Korea. He was a mechanic on everything from a chainsaw up to tanks. He worked at Isabella Ready Mix for many years. He was a devoted husband who truly loved spending time with his family. He especially loved when the grandkids would come visit. His favorite pastime was cutting wood, hunting, fishing, gardening, and going to as many yard sales as possible. Gene lived up to his nickname "Tuff" 100%. He will be dearly missed by many family members and friends.

Gene is survived by his sister Norma Morrison of Gainesville; sister Shirley Lee; son Bobby Smart and wife Rachelle of Gainesville; son Buddy Smart and wife Stacey Baker of Gainesville; grandchildren Deann Smart of Gainesville, Alexandra Smart of Gainesville, Maggie Meyers and husband Chance of Omaha, AR, Mollie Smart of Gainesville, Kyle Smart and Jennifer King of Gainesville, Dylan Smart of Washington State; great grandchildren Aiden Bohannon, Ellie Meyers, Maddie Meyers, Presley Meyers, Julia Smart, Savannah Smart, Freyja Smart; and many nieces and nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife Julia Smart; mother Maggie Smart; and sister Rosie.

Services will be private. Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.