Thomas Eugene "Gene" Finley

Thomas Eugene “ Gene” Finley, 84, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2026 at Catawba Valley Medical Center surrounded by his family.

Born August 27, 1942, in Rutherfordton, North Carolina to the late Furman and Nell Finley, Gene was a beloved band director who impacted the lives of many students from Forsyth, Rutherford and Catawba counties over the course of 30 years.

His passions included camping with his family, fishing, golfing and gardening. He loved being part of his church, serving as a deacon, singing tenor in the choir and leading music in worship.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Delores “Dee” Finley; daughter, Carmelle Martin (David); son, David Finley (Stephanie); grandchildren, Hannah Ford (Luke), Sarah Martin, Sedona Snead (Trace) and Ayla Finley and great-grandchildren, Weston and Jane.

A celebration of Gene's life will be at 4:00 P.M. Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at East Maiden Baptist Church with Rev. Nathaniel Austin officiating. The family will receive friends from 2:30-4:00 P.M. at the church.

The members of the Shuford-Campbell Sunday School Class will serve as honorary Pallbearers.

Memorials in Gene’s honor may be made to East Maiden Baptist Church.

Please sign the online guestbook on the Memorial Wall at www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net. The Finley family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Newton 828-464-1555.