Emmagene "Gene" Lola Mayes, 86, of Nickerson, died July 30, 2024, at her home. She was born September 12, 1937, in Hutchinson, to J. Edgar and Lola C. (Bailey) Ryan.

Gene proudly received her GED in 2002. In addition to being a homemaker, she worked as a cashier at T & E Oil, driver at St. Francis Community Services, technician for Lifeline, food prep at McDonalds in South Hutchinson, and assisting her husband Curtis with his business, M & M Remodeling.

First and foremost was Gene's love for her family – they truly were her world. She loved caring for them in any way she could and was president of Chris Mayes Fan Club (he was a racecar driver). Gene also was an animal lover, especially cats, and enjoyed vegetable gardening in her 1½ acre garden, crocheting, and all kinds of crafts. She was a member of First Christian Church of Hutchinson.

On February 5, 1954, Gene married her soulmate, Curtis G. Mayes Jr., in Hutchinson. They shared nearly 50 years of marriage before his death on January 14, 2003.

She is survived by: her children, Debrah Brown, son Chris Mayes (Brenda), all of Hutchinson, Elizabeth "Beth" Andsager of Nickerson; grandchildren, Eugene Jensen Jr. (Nickie), Theresa Eberly, Crystal Pulliam (Gary), Willie Mayes (Sheridan), Thomas Andsager (Tamra), Shawn Andsager (Jazzmine); great-grandchildren, Olivia, Jody, and Carrisa Jensen, Megan Llanas, Madison Goff, Michael Grippando, Cheyenne Higgins (Bryar), Breanna Milbrandt (Joey), Kaylee Mayes (Julian King), Curtis Mayes, Mercy Stauffer, Olivia and Jayse Andsager; 6 great-great-grandchildren; brother, Loren Turner (Bev) of Burley, ID; and many extended family members.

Gene was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Eugene Ryan.

Cremation has taken place. Graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5905 W 4th Ave., Hutchinson. A Celebration of Life gathering will follow beginning at 12:30 p.m. at Nickerson Community Center, 11 N Nickerson Street.

Friends may sign her memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily until the service.

Memorial donations may be made to Cause for Paws, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.