Obituary of Eugene Martin Lunsford, Jr

Eugene M. Lunsford Jr., 69 of Port Charlotte, Florida passed away Wednesday July 6, 2022.  He was a 35 year warrior in his fight with many forms of cancer. He was admired for his faith, perseverance, patient endurance, strength and grace.  Through it all, he was cared for by his loving wife, Geralyn whom he called his “Blonde Angel”.

Gene was born in Dayton, Ohio and educated in Massachusetts. As a High School senior, his knowledge and passion for computers was evident when he designed a software program for the Framingham school system.  He pursued computer engineering as his college major.  He graduated college from The University of Massachusetts at Amhurst where he received dual degrees in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.

After graduation, he was hired as the 10th engineer for Prime Computer, a startup company.  He was responsible for developing high level hardware and software computer design technology.  He was awarded and accepted a prestigious recognition position on the Ken Fisher President’s Council for Prime Computer for his many successes. In 1989, Gene’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his own computer networking company, Applied Systems Inc. (ASI).  He was owner and President of ASI until his retirement in 2017. 

Gene was a mentor throughout his life, both professionally and personally.  Gene was a proud mentor and supporter of Geralyn’s career as a successful Registered Nurse and Hospital Administrator.  He enjoyed teaching children karate classes and math and science to his neighbors’ children.  He enjoyed sharing his knowledge and spending time with his beloved nieces and nephews.

Gene had a passion for adventure. An avid sailor, he sailed the New England coast, Florida Coast and Keys, Bahamas, British Virgin Islands, and Windward Islands. He was a talented chef, 3rd degree black belt in karate, scuba diver, expert snow skier and enjoyed guitar, music, and smooth jazz cruising.

Gene had great kindness, compassion, generosity, and love for his wife, family, and friends. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Geralyn Doherty Lunsford, his brother, Roger Lunsford and his wife Teresa, his sister Donna Lunsford Scott and husband, Bob Scott.  He was preceded in death by his mother, Gertrude Rapp Lunsford and father, Eugene Lunsford Sr.          

Catholic services will be held privately at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.  In lieu of flowers, a donation to Saint Francis of Assisi, Grove City, Florida and directed to the food pantry in memory of Eugene Lunsford Jr. would be appreciated.

Englewood Community Funeral Home has been selected to handle arrangements. You may share a memory at www.englewoodfh.com