Pastor Eugene Houston “Gene” Proffitt, 83, of Winchester, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Winchester Medical Center.

Born on October 5, 1942, in Front Royal, Virginia, Gene was the son of the late Roy Proffitt, Sr. and Laura (Taylor) Proffitt. He grew up in the area, graduating from Warren County High School and then going on to complete trade school.

Gene spent the first chapter of his professional life working as a computer operator, dedicated to his career at Acacia Insurance Company and later retiring from First Virginia Bank. However, his truest and most enduring calling was to the ministry. Ordained as clergy, Pastor Gene dedicated over 30 years of his life to preaching at Bethany Hill Baptist Church, officially serving as pastor since 1996. He loved nothing more than serving the Lord and shepherd-guiding his congregation. Outside of his ministry and family, he could often be found cheering on his favorite football team, the Commanders/Redskins.

Gene shared 64 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Evelyn Louise (Chapman) Proffitt, whom he married on May 1, 1962, in Washington, D.C. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, and devotion to family.

He is survived by his wife, Evelyn; his children, Christopher Proffitt and his wife, Crystal, of Westminster, MD, and Lisa Vance and her husband, John, of McGheysville, VA; and his four cherished grandchildren, Luke Proffitt, Gary Vance, Madison Vance, and Christopher Proffitt, II.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents and his two brothers, Roy Proffitt, Jr., and Darrell Proffitt.

A service will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 4pm at Bethany Hill Baptist Church, with Pastor Carolyn Martin officiating. The family will receive family and friends one hour prior to the service at the church starting at 3pm. Interment will be private at a later date at Shenandoah Memorial Park.

In Lieu of Flowers: Memorial contributions may be made in Pastor Gene’s honor to the Bethany Hill Baptist Church, 117 Bethany Hill Drive, Winchester, VA 22603.