Desmond Gene “Gene” Little, age 84, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025, in New Port Richey, Florida. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, Gene’s life was a testament to faith, service, and unwavering love for his family and community.

Born on February 21, 1941, in Tampa, Florida, Gene was raised in a loving Catholic home by his parents Desmond and Michealine Little. He remained a faithful Catholic throughout his life, grounding his actions in deep spiritual conviction and sharing his love for the Lord with everyone he met.

Gene shared 63 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife Linda. Together they built a strong and enduring family legacy that continues through their children: Michelle (Ronnie), Michael (Analisa), and Robert (Michelle). His pride and joy extended to his grandchildren—Jason (Ashley), Juliana (Justin), Brittany (Austin), Jessica (Matthew), Gabrielle (Stephen), Danielle (professed name Sister Ancilla Pacis), Zachary (McKenzie), Jonathan, and Megan (Sydney)—and further to his great-grandchildren: Jackson, Kensington, Leighton, Silas, Lawrence Michael, Sebastian, Wyatt, Gracelyn, Clint, Hadley, Granger, and Savannah.

He is also lovingly remembered by his brothers Terry and Pete. Gene was predeceased by his parents and his sister Mary.

Gene’s life was marked by a profound commitment to service. He took great pride in serving on the Board of the Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative. His dedication to this role reflected not only his desire to contribute meaningfully to the community but also his belief in stewardship and responsibility. Whether through formal service or everyday acts of kindness, Gene gave generously of himself—always ready with a kind word or helping hand.

To those who knew him best—and even those who met him only briefly—Gene was a beacon of warmth and sincerity. He never missed an opportunity to share the message of God’s love or offer encouragement rooted in faith. His generosity knew no bounds; he was truly a friend to all.

Gene lived a full life surrounded by the people he cherished most. His home was always open to family gatherings filled with laughter and love. He found joy in every moment spent with loved ones—from quiet conversations to celebrations that brought generations together.

Desmond Gene “Gene” Little leaves behind a legacy of faithfulness, compassion, and devotion that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him. May his memory bring comfort and peace to those who carry him in their hearts. A Viewing will be held on September 11, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Dobies Funeral Home located at 6616 Congress St., New Port Richey, Florida.

A Funeral Mass will be held on September 12, 2025, from 01:00 PM to 02:15 PM at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church located at 5340 High Street, New Port Richey, Florida.  His burial will follow the Mass Meadowlawn Memorial Gardens 4244 Madison St., New Port Richey, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or Tunnel To Towers Foundation, two organizations that were very dear to Gene’s heart  Donations can be made online at https://www.stjude.org/ or https://t2t.org/ in memory of Desmond Gene Little.