Gene Lamont Timberlake

Gene Lamont Timberlake passed on February 28th after a courageous battle against Covid-19 at Houston Methodist Hospital, where he was given the best loving and professional care. He crossed the finish line of his final race, and now runs free and unencumbered. 

Gene is the oldest son of Martin and Claudia Timberlake. Born in Brewton, Alabama on February 17th, 1944, "Buddy" moved with his family to Houston at the age of eight. He married Jane Foard in 1965 (now Jane Thompson), and they were blessed with three daughters: Kim Wright and Nigel in Sarasota, Tracey Bollier-Timberlake in Luzern, Switzerland, and Cindy Timberlake Van Heyst and Greg in Tampa, and seven grandchildren: Corrina and Alex Wright, Jeremy and Kyle Bollier, and Maya, Ezekial and Jeremiah Van Heyst. Gene is also survived by his brother, Ray Timberlake and Cecelia from Sugar Land and their three daughters, Kristin, Jenny, Allison and families, and many relatives and friends.

At an early age, Gene excelled in academics and athletics. He can always be remembered for having the trunk of his car filled with footballs, basketballs, gloves, bats and golf clubs, just in case he came across a pickup game, along with his running shoes and shorts. His first remarkable track victory occurred at the 9th grade HISD city championship, and from there he went on to become the most valuable runner at Lamar High school in 1962. His specialty was the 800-meter run. He was also a gifted baseball player, starting out as a talent in River Oaks little league. 

A gifted and talented baseball player as well, Gene eventually pursued all sports throughout high school, and was a 3-sport letterman. Graduating with honors, Gene received a full 4-year scholarship to Rice University. Amongst his academic achievements and athletic awards, he was part of Rice's Southwest Conference track and field's championship team 1965, and a medalist in the 1964 SWC Cross Country 3-mile Championship in Dallas. Gene was a runner his whole life, competing in Masters national races in Oregon on several occasions, and competed in numerous long-distance races, in which he often placed first in his category. 

After receiving his BA degree in 1966, his career evolved to a successful business owner of "GT Tax Service", his accounting practice for more than 25 years; one of the first accounting firms to computerize the bookkeeping in the 80's. Gene decided to further his studies, earning an MBA degree from the Univ. of Texas in Austin. He sold his accounting practice and focused on sport business management for some years.

25 years ago, using his sharp analytical and statistical skills and talent for games and strategy, he decided to become a professional poker player. From hosting home games to road trips to the World Series of Poker tournament in Las Vegas, "Tex" travelled the country and Europe playing in games and tournaments, entertaining, making friends and bringing his competitive spirit to every game. 

Gene served as a "Big Brother" mentor, and supported the Rice track team and numerous student athletes in their development. He was an avid fan of Rice athletic events, even road trips to support Rice in the College Baseball World Series, as well the Houston Astros, Rockets and Texans.

Gene loved life and lived life, on his own terms in the "GT" way. He will always be remembered for his humor, wit, and good stories. It could be said that he never met a stranger where ever he went! He walked into a room and the party started! He loved and was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren, happy to share stories of them with any interested listener. Gene will be deeply missed, but his love and memory live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31

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