Obituary of Larry Eugene Ollis

ASHEVILLE – Gene Ollis, age 81, went to be with his Lord and Savior Monday, November 23,  2020.

Mr. Ollis was predeceased by his loving parents, L.D. and Burniece Ollis, of Roan Mtn., TN.  He was also predeceased by brothers, Ford and Murrell Ollis; and sister, Ella Mae Ollis Gibbs.

Gene is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, June Kay Allman Ollis; a dear brother, Warren G. Ollis and wife Sally; sister, Wanda Gaye Ollis Helms; brother-in-law, Wayne; and a number of nephews, nieces, great nephews and nieces whom he held close to his heart.

Gene was born June 14, 1939 in the farm house he grew up in on Heaton Creek, Roan Mtn, TN, to the most loving and godly parents one could hope to have. 

He graduated from Cloudland High in 1957 and always looked forward to each year’s class reunion.  He attended East TN State but then decided to honor his country by joining the US Army in 1963 and was stationed in Germany until honorably discharged in 1965.

Before service he had worked as assistant manager for F.W. Woolworth in three states.  After service he became store manager for Hadley Outlet Store in Asheville, NC and then opened his own business (B. Julia, Ltd.) in 1988 and retired closing business in July 2004.

He and June Kay were married January 14, 1967 and had almost 54 wonderful years together.  Her comments are: “I could have searched the world over and not found a better man, husband and friend.  I thank God for allowing me this honor and blessing.”

A Christian service to celebrate his life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, November 27, 2020 in the Chapel of West Funeral Home, 17 Merrimon Avenue, Weaverville.  Reverend Jeffrey Hober conducting service.  A private burial will be held at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, Black Mountain.

Per the NC Governor, masks are required in all public buildings. Those who choose, may listen to the service on their car radio on FM 87.7 while in the funeral home parking lot.

The family extends deep appreciation and to the caregivers (especially Keitha and Margie) at CarePartners Solace Center.  June Kay would like to thank my and Gene’s wonderful neighbors, friends, her side of the family and most of all Gene’s side for all the support and love.

For those who desire, condolences may be offered to the family under Mr. Ollis’ obituary at www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.