Gene Barton, II

Okolona—Robert Eugene Barton, II, 32, passed away Sunday, June 7, 2026, at his home in Okolona. Gene was born November 30, 1993, in Tupelo, to Robert Eugene Barton and Cynthia Nell Flaherty Barton.

A proud graduate of Itawamba Community College, Gene earned an Associate Degree in Business in 2016. He continued his education at the University of Mississippi, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing in 2018. Following graduation, he began his career with Enterprise Rent-A-Car as a management trainee and was quickly promoted to the company’s remarketing division, where he lived and worked in Florida.

Although his career took him away from home for a time, Gene’s heart remained in Okolona. A few years ago, he returned home to the community he loved and dedicated himself to serving its citizens. At the time of his death, he was serving as the Ward 6 City Councilman for the City of Okolona. He was also pursuing his dream of helping local businesses grow through his newly established company, Magnolia Marketing and Innovations.

Gene possessed a generous spirit, a kind heart and a genuine love for people. He never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand. His enthusiasm for his community, his dedication to his family and friends, and his unwavering determination left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His presence will be deeply missed, and his memory will be cherished by all whose lives he touched.

Gene is survived by his mother, Cindy Flaherty Barton of Okolona; brothers and sisters, Josh Barton (Chrisley) of Pascagoula, Johnny Crouch (Jessie) of Okolona, Robert Crouch of Pontotoc, Maria Grisham (Luke) of Ecru, Stephanie Johnson of Pontotoc, Lowell Barton of Okolona, and Roy Crouch (Rachel) of Ellisville; four nieces and nephews, Will Barton, Chloe Barton, Bella Barton, and Roman Grisham; two great-nieces and nephews and one on the way; and a host of cousins and close friends.

Gene was preceded in death by his grandparents and his father, Gene Barton.

Visitation will be 11 a.m. until service time Saturday, June 13, 2026 at the First Baptist Church of Okolona.

Services honoring Gene’s life will be 1 p.m. Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the First Baptist Church of Okolona with Dr. Randy Lewman and Bro. H.B. Miller officiating. Graveside services will follow at Lee Memorial Park. Pegues Funeral Directors is honored to assist the family with arrangements.

Pallbearers will be Ryan McGee, Beau Alison, Robert Crouch, Lowell Barton, Luke Grisham, Johnny Crouch, and Josh Barton.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be shared at PeguesFuneralHome.com