Eugene "Gene" William Shelly

Eugene "Gene" William Shelly, aged 79, of Twin Falls, Idaho, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025. Born on September 20, 1946, in Twin Falls, he was a beloved member of the community, known for his loving nature and generous spirit.

Gene served honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, retiring from military service in 2004. His commitment to his country exemplified his character of service and dedication, qualities that he carried into his many roles throughout life.

With a personality that was both kind and playful, Gene loved to tease and make those around him laugh. He cherished the time spent with his family, especially in his favorite place, “Skippy’s,” nestled in the beloved mountains. Gene had a passion for tinkering, fishing, camping, and restoring anything he could find a new purpose for; these hobbies brought him immense joy and fulfillment.

Gene's proudest accomplishments included being married to Marian Cooper in 1964, later divorced, and marrying Sharon Shelly in 1979 until her passing in 2011. He found love once again when he married Gayle Milner in 2014, creating lasting bonds and memories in his later years.

He is survived by his wife, Gayle Shelly, his daughters Annette Hempleman (Dana), Tammy Millsap (Fred), and Kerry Eisenring, as well as his stepsons Doug Norris and Shawn Norris. Gene was also the proud grandfather to eight grandchildren and the adoring great-grandfather to fourteen great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy.

He was preceded in death by his father, Don Shelly; mother, Lucille Shelly; sister, Ladonna Bolton; infant son, James Ray Shelly; and his second wife, Sharon Shelly, as well as his stepdaughter, Lynn Norris.

A viewing will be held on December 8, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., followed by a Rosary from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Wilks Magic Valley Funeral Home, located at 2551 Kimberly Road, Twin Falls, ID 83301. Additional viewings will take place on December 9, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. at St. Edward's Catholic Church, followed by a Funeral Service from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Thereafter, Gene will be laid to rest in a burial at Twin Falls Cemetery at 2:00 p.m.

Gene Shelly's remarkable life and gentle spirit will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.