Floyd Eugene "Gene" Betterton, 74, passed away October 6, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.  He was born November 22, 1950, to Howard Wayne and Agnes Lola (Parris) Betterton in Nowata, OK.

Gene was married to Debra Kay Talbot for over 30 years before her passing on July 1, 2020.

Gene was an amazing man- the best father and papa!  Loved by everyone, he made friends wherever he went.  He was known for his orneriness, always joking around.  Gene loved spending time with his family and many friends he made during his stay at the nursing home and enjoying a beer or two.

He worked as a forklift driver and later as a fry cook at KFC for over ten years before retiring.  He would beat anyone brave enough to take him on in a game of pool and was known as the king of dominos and bingo at Diversicare in Hutchinson.

Gene is survived by his: daughters, Debra Betterton (Alicia "Fred" Rothstein), Amanda Betterton, Amy Cross (Gene Reid), Jeannette Crossno (Ralph, Jr.); son, Kenny McKay; grandchildren, Brody, Clayton, Brittany, Madison, Derek, Deven, Ralph III, Jimmy, Kordell, Casey, Eliana, Daniel, David and Brooklyn; great-grandson, Frankie Joe to arrive in February 2026; brothers, Pete and Gary Betterton; sisters, Peggy Oakerland and Bunny May; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his: wife; parents; brothers, Howard Wayne and Larry; and sister, Bobby Larson.

Cremation has taken place.  There will be a Celebration of Life announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hospital District 1 of Rice County in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main St., Hutchinson, KS, 67501.