Norton Eugene Curry
Norton Eugene Curry, affectionately known as Gene, 81, of Dickinson, Texas, passed away on June 24, 2025, under the excellent care of the nursing staff of UTMB League City. Born on July 21, 1943, in Santa Ana, California, Gene lived a remarkable life defined by service, leadership, and devotion to his family and community.
As the son of a Marine, Gene’s early years were marked by frequent moves, living in 19 different locations across California, Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. A proud Marine himself, he carried the values of duty and resilience throughout his life. Gene graduated from McCollum High School in Austin, Texas, and worked diligently to earn a BS in Education from the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP).
Gene’s professional career spanned an impressive 26 years with Southern Union Gas, where he rose to the position of Director of Productivity. After leaving the gas industry, he dedicated 17 years to managing energy for UTMB, retiring at age 66. His leadership extended beyond the workplace into civic life, where he made significant contributions to the Galveston community. Some of the offices Gene held include President of the Rotary Club of Galveston, Chapter President of the American Heart Association, Chairman of the American Heart Association for the State of Texas, and Chairman of the Galveston Chamber of Commerce, leaving a lasting impact through his commitment to service.
Gene was preceded in death by his father, Norton Eugene Curry, Sr., his mother, Virginia Allyn Curry, and his sister, Cheryl Cabrera. Gene is survived by his strong, loving wife, Susan; sons, Kevin Curry and wife, Lisa, and Brandon Ward; daughters, Tamara Ybarbo and husband, Chad, and Jessica Wilson, and eight grandchildren.
A celebration of Gene’s life will be held at Dickinson First United Methodist Church, 200 FM 517 Rd. West, Dickinson, TX 77539 at 2pm, Saturday, July 5th. A reception with light refreshments will follow the celebration. In recognition of his love of cruising, guests are encouraged to dress in white, smart casual or Hawaiian shirts. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Gene’s honor to the American Heart Association. Gene’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Gene was a dear friend to all he met. We’d been friends for over 20 years and cruised together many times. He was so interesting and had a story for every occasion. He was a great dancer, a talented singer and guitar player, and he lived such a full life with his wife (my dear friend Susan). He will be greatly missed!
Darling Susan, although we only knew you and Gene as Cruisemates on the Princess Sapphire, we had begun an Ahoy friendship on FB months before in our exchanges of info and arranging our personal Meet & Greet. We will never forget the two of you, your brillance, intellect and laughs. Talking with Gene Curry was fun and a journey of its own as we learned about the World through his impeccable wit. Oh Susan, Gene was unlike anyone else. Everthing interested Gene. His love of People, adventure and his life quest to help where he could, when he could. Bob and I cherish the last lunch we shared where, off the top of his head, you recall, he recited 12 stanza Epic Ode, the name I’ve forgotten. Gene, will not be forgotten.
I’m so sorry for the loss of Gene. You have my sincerest condolences.
So sad to hear of Gene’s passing. We were cruise friends and so enjoyed cruising with him and Susan. I will never forget the Galveston Opera house concert Gene and I planned before a cruise. He was so excited to perform, and I was so excited to accompany him. Deepest sympathy to Susan.
Rest in peace dear Gene.
Sara Gamache
We will always remember Gene Curry from our cruising days — especially that little island in Belize and the rum punch party on the boat that followed. Then there was the get-together at our home with the Grand Princess cruise gang, the hurricane relief get together, and so many other wonderful memories over the years.
Though we hadn’t cruised together in a very long time, we are so glad we reunited for dinner with Gene and Susan about a year ago. It was like no time had passed — the same sharp wit, intellect, and that classic Gene spark.
Gene’s love and caring for Susan and family was always evident.
We will especially miss the emails filled with political funnies — always spot-on, always Gene.
Most of all, we thank him for his service as a proud U.S. Marine. He’ll be remembered with respect, admiration, and deep fondness.
Semper Fi, Gene,
Rest peacefully,
Susan, you and your family have my thoughts and prayers. I was so sad to hear of Gene’s passing. I got to know him through you at work and tasting his recipes from the dishes you would bring in. We know that earth’s lost is heaven’s gain and we all await our time when we can see our Lord and Savior face to face. I pray comfort in your time of grief and ask that God guide you through this process.
Susan, I was sad to hear of Gene’s passing and even though I never met him it seems that his personality was big and that you all made many great memories. My family’s prayers are with you as you go through this difficult time. God bless you!