Celebration of Life Services for Mr. Gene Mandel Scrutchins will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 11:00AM. Location - Mt. Tilla Baptist Church 2424 US Highway 441 S. Irwinton, Georgia. Reverend Clarence Thomas, Sr. will officiate and Pastor Harold J. Banks will serve as eulogist. Interment will follow at Dudley Memorial Cemetery.

Deacon Gene Mandel Scrutchins was born on July 24, 1938, in Laurens County, Dublin, Georgia, to the late Rev. Wiley Lawson Scrutchins and the late Buther Scrutchins-Alford.

He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Mr. Clarence Alford; four brothers, Mr. Johnny Scrutchins, Mr. Wiley Scrutchins, Rev. Spencer (Louselma) Scrutchins, and Mr. Albert Scrutchins; and one sister, Ms. Ethel L. Baker.

When God called Deacon Scrutchins home, he was faithfully serving as the Senior Deacon of Mount Tilla Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Harold J. Banks. He retired from McMillan Publishing Company after many years of dedicated service. Gene enjoyed fishing, singing, and handyman work, and was known for his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

One of his most unforgettable memories was being a member of a singing group that had the opportunity to open for the legendary Earth, Wind & Fire. Another cherished memory was singing "The Star-Spangled Banner" at a major league baseball game, an experience that brought him great pride and joy.

During his illness, Deacon Scrutchins was blessed to receive exceptional care and unwavering compassion from Mrs. Willie Pearl Tharpe, whose kindness, patience, and loving support brought comfort to both him and his family. Her dedication and selfless service will always be remembered with deep appreciation and gratitude.

Deacon Scrutchins leaves to cherish his memories, his devoted wife, Mrs. Gwen Scrutchins; daughters, Tricia Scrutchins and Sheanna Chappell; son, Jarrick Chappell; grandchildren, Chanell Scrutchins, Javon Scrutchins and Kade Johnson. He also leaves six great-grandchildren, Kaleya Scrutchins, Jayden Scrutchins, Jordan Scrutchins, Jovonie Scrutchins, Gabriel Scrutchins, and Nicholas DeSintis; sisters-in-law, Elder Dianne (Bishop Arthur) Fulton and Janetta (Hugh) Hall; brothers-in-law, Steve (Kordel) Moore and Benjamin Moore; and a host of cherished cousins, relatives, nieces, nephews, and friends.

His life was a testament to faith, family, and service. Deacon Gene Mandel Scrutchins will forever be remembered for his steadfast devotion to God, his love for music, and the warmth and wisdom he shared with all who knew him. Though he has departed this earthly life, his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, especially in the memories of Kade Johnson, who lovingly called him Papa.

The family will receive family and friends at the home address - 797 Pointe West Loop Dublin, Georgia 31021 from 4:00 until 7:00PM.

Public viewing will  be held Friday, June 19, 2027 from 11:00-7:00PM at the funeral home.

Serenity Funeral Home - Dublin has charge of arrangements.