Eugene Winstead

Taylor “Eugene” Winstead (age 84) died in his home in Pelahatchie, MS on August 26, 2021.
Eugene was born July 7,1937 in Pelahatchie, where he was raised and lived most of his life.
Eugene was known for being a devoted father, grandfather, and great grandfather, and a friend
to many. His favorite pastimes include hunting, fishing, carpentry, and spending time with his
family. He was an avid outdoorsman. His love for nature started early in his life as he and his
sisters, Mary, Alice, and Shirley enjoyed exploring outdoors, going on adventures, and playing
games. Being the only boy surrounded by his sisters helped shape him into the devoted, loving
man he became. Their parents, Taylor and Oreatus Winstead, taught them to love well but also
work hard in all they did in life. This molded him into the hard worker he proved to be throughout
his life.
His children and grandchildren remember many days spent outdoors learning from his
experiences. From learning how to hunt and fish, how to make slingshots and bows & arrows
out of the “just right” wood, observing the steps it took to tend a garden, and helping him as he
built their playhouse and other projects, they all remember fondly the great hands-on
experiences they shared with him.
He was known for telling stories. Being in his presence while he told his tales was pure pleasure
to all. Many would ask to hear his stories again and again because they only got better each
time. His quick wit and easy-going nature made him a joy to be around, but he had a fire and
passion for what he loved most and didn’t mind standing up for what he felt was right at the
same time.
Eugene was a veteran and served his country with the United States Navy. Most of Eugene’s
working career was as Maintenance Supervisor over the water department for the Town of
Pelahatchie.
He is survived by his former spouse, LaVerne May, his two daughters, Denise Webb
(Rick) and Darlene Millings (Teddy Ray); 4 grandchildren, Britton Webb, Lauren Therrell (Clay),
Taylor Webb (Mary Carolyn “Macc”), and Micah Martin; 6 great grandchildren, Suttyn May,
Salter Rose, and Stella Clay Therrell, Miley, Wilson Taylor, and Sol Webb, and 2 sisters, Mary
Gray and Alice Harris, and friend Judy White.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Taylor and Oreatus Winstead and a sister Shirley
Dempsey.
Visitation and services will be held at Crossroads Baptist Church in Pelahatchie, MS on Sunday,
August 29, 2021. Visitation begins at 1:00 pm and services will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor
Drew Chapman officiating. Burial will follow at Crossroads Baptist Cemetery.
Pallbearers: Britton Webb, Taylor Webb, Clay Therrell, Darin Rowell, Freddie Rowell, Ryan
Rowell, and Chris Harris.
Honorary Pallbearers: Rick Webb and Teddy Ray Millings
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Southern Outdoors Unlimited, Mississippi Super
Hunts, Attention: Holly Mooney, PO Box 2305, Ridgeland, MS 39158 in honor of Eugene
Winstead. (100 % of ALL proceeds go to helping youth with disabilities enjoy hunting
adventures in God’s great outdoors.)