Eugene "Gene" Carlton Durden

Gene was born in Loganville, GA and moved to Oconee County as a youngster. He graduated from Oconee County High School in 1950 and married his high school sweetheart, Mary Alice "Alice" Hillsman, on February 25, 1954. They were both standout athletes, traveled the world as a proud military family, and raised their family. Gene and Alice had three sons: Joe Maxey, Douglas Carlton, and Dave Paul. Gene served 27 years in the US Army and honorably retired as a Sergeant Major. His service included an 18-month combat tour in Korea, and tours in both Germany and Japan. Upon retirement in 1978, he came back home to Oconee County. Following Alice's early passing from cancer on February 27, 1978, Gene later married Elner Ann Hinesley on 30 March 1985. He and Elner loved traveling the country, meeting new friends, and discovering new adventures in their RV. Elner passed August 17, 2012 after a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease. Gene was the consummate caregiver to both Alice and Elner whom he loved dearly. Most notably, Gene was an engaged and active member of the Watkinsville First Christian Church for over 50 years.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents Alexander and Mattie Belle Durden; spouses Mary Alice and Elner; sons Joe and Douglas; and nine brothers and sisters Erastas, Martha (Bauham), Harold, Rachel (Haulk), Louise (Turner), Charles, Fred, George, and Howard.

Gene is survived by his son Dave and daughter-in-law Raquel (Johnson); grandchildren Ciera, Karli and her husband Robbie (Nelson), Tyler and his wife Madison (McMahan), and Jacob Durden; sister Ethel; special nieces Wanda Wages and Vicki Stout; and many relatives and friends. The family's heartfelt thanks go out to Gene's remarkable care team: Rose, Mary, Amanda, Julia, Melissa, Lisa, Sandra, Toya, Keke and the close family and friends who supported Gene's wish to live his bonus years in his own home.

A funeral service will be held at Watkinsville First Christian Church (4 N. Main St., Watkinsville, GA 30677) on Sunday, September 11, 2022, by Pastor Sheila Hunter. Interment will follow in Johnson United Methodist Church cemetery (1890 Flat Rock Rd., Watkinsville, GA 30677). The family requests that attendees wear a US Flag in recognition of Gene's honorable service and as a sign of a united tomorrow. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Watkinsville First Christian Church in Gene's memory or the charity of one's choice.

Visitation will take place from 2:00-3:30 PM on Sunday, September 11, 2022 at Watkinsville First Christian Church. The funeral service will follow at 3:30 PM at the same location followed by a graveside service at Johnson United Methodist Church cemetery at 4:45 PM.

Watkinsville First Christian Church will host a Church gathering and potluck in the Fellowship Hall following the graveside service.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.