Obituary

Charles "Stephen" Genco

January 15, 1956 - September 9, 2026

Charles Stephen Genco, affectionately known as “Mr. Bogalusa,” went home to spend eternity with his Lord Jesus Christ on Wednesday, September 9, 2026. Stephen was born January 15, 1956. He was a lifelong part of the Bogalusa community, where his presence, kindness, and friendship touched the lives of many.

Stephen was the co-owner of Genco Amusement, a business he began working for at the age of 12, as well as Brothers Bingo and Magic City Fireworks. Throughout his life, he proudly served on numerous boards, including the Our Lady of the Angels Hospital Board, and supported many organizations and community groups. He was also a devoted lover of animals, especially his beloved Cocker Spaniel companion, “Lady.” He was a proud graduate of Bogalusa High School.

Throughout his life, Stephen was a devout Roman Catholic and longtime member of Annunciation Catholic Church in Bogalusa. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and a founding member of the Magic City Carnival Association (MCCA). Stephen served for many years on the MCCA Board of Directors, giving his time, energy, and dedication to the organization. He helped preserve one of the MCCA’s beloved traditions, the MCCA bears, helping to design and distribute them throughout the community to create special memories for generations of parade-goers. Stephen had a true giver's heart. He was always willing to help others and never sought recognition for the good he did. His generosity came from a genuine love for people. Schools, churches, organizations, and countless individuals benefited from his kindness and blessings. Stephen’s love for his community was evident throughout his life. He was a familiar face, a respected local businessman, a loyal friend to many, and someone who genuinely cared about Bogalusa and the people who call it home.

Above all, Stephen was devoted to his family, his brothers, his sister-in-law, and his friends. Beyond his many accomplishments and titles, he will forever be remembered for the friendships he built, the laughter he shared, and the lasting mark he left on the community he loved.

Stephen is survived by his brother, Bryan Genco, and wife, Cherie Genco, along with numerous cousins, family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam Genco and Lena Mae Saltaformaggio Genco, and his brothers, Greg Genco and Gary Genco.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at Brown-McGehee Funeral Home beginning at 1:00 P.M. Friends are invited to join the family for visitation from 10:00 A.M. until the service begins. Stephen will be escorted to his final resting place in Ponemah Cemetery with Paul Saltaformaggio, Johnny Saltaformaggio, Brad Saltaformaggio, Anthony Saltaformaggio, Ed Branch, and Randy Strickland serving as pallbearers, with his many friends and neighbors across Washington Parish serving as honorary pallbearers.

Stephen’s life was a gift to his family, his friends, and his community. His kindness, generosity, laughter, and love will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

May he rest eternally in the loving arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.