Gene McDonald Schroeder, age 96, of Troy, Alabama, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026. He was born on May 15, 1929 in Wetumpka, Alabama. He lived a long and meaningful life marked by devotion to his family, his community, and honorable service in the United States Army during the Korean War.

Gene was married to June Faulk Schroeder for 65 years. Together they built a family that remained at the center of their lives. He is survived by his children, Traci Easterling (Clay), Vikki Pridgen (Ronald), and Gene Schroeder II; his grandchildren, Caitlyn Dodds (Stuart), Claire Switzer (Jonathan), Sydney Schroeder, Olivia Schroeder, Rachel Pridgen, Daniel Pridgen, Anna Pridgen, and his great-grandchildren, Connor Dodds and Jack Switzer. He is also survived by his brother, Franklin “Slim” Schroeder, with whom he shared a close bond throughout their lives, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents Virginia Johnson Schroeder and William Henry Schroeder, beloved wife, June Faulk Schroeder, and siblings William “Billy” Schroeder Jr., Paul Schroeder, Lillie Murrell, Isabel Iliano, Hazel Wiles, James “Toby” Schroeder, and Quentin “Shorty” Schroeder.

Gene dedicated over 33 years of his life serving as Executive Director of the Organized Community Action Program (OCAP). Through his work, he helped bring vital programs to the community including Low Income Housing, Neighborhood Youth Corps, Head Start, Commodity Foods, and the Emergency Food & Shelter Program. Gene served two terms as President of the Alabama Community Action Agency Association and was also instrumental in organizing the National Community Action Agencies Association. His leadership and commitment made a lasting impact on countless lives.

Outside of his career, Gene found great joy in capturing memories, big and small. Over the years, he organized family gatherings called “LA Days” (Lower Alabama) at his home, cherishing the company of relatives and friends. He was an avid fan of Alabama football and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the Crimson Tide. Above all, he loved his family deeply and was never happier than when they were all together, taking great pride in being a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle.

Gene had great faith in his savior, Jesus Christ, and lived out his faith as a member of First Baptist Church of Troy. Gene will be remembered for his quick wit, dedication to his family, and lighthearted spirit. He had a sharp mind, a hardworking nature, and a way of bringing warmth and humor to those around him. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

The Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Dillard Funeral Home in Troy, AL. A visitation will begin one hour prior at 10:00 AM, and burial will follow at Wetumpka City Cemetery in Wetumpka, AL.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First Baptist Church of Troy.

Gene’s legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to family will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.