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Robert E. “Gene” Hill, 79, of Climax, passed away Thursday, November 14, 2024.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Online visitors may sign the guest register at www.bryantfuneralga.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516. www.woundedwarriorproject.org

Robert Eugene Hill was born January 31, 1945, in Alamo, GA, the son of Robert & Ellen Sanders Hill. After high school graduation, Gene took a few flying lessons though he actually learned to fly at age 15, and went on to proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in the United States Marine Corps. Gene’s love for flying never wavered. He retired from Coastal Helicopter as a pilot.  

Gene spent most of his life in Southwest Georgia minus a few years in Central Florida. He marched to his own beat and never doubted he could maintain the rhythm. Gene was dependable, punctual, and always present. He was affectionately known as “Mean Gene”, “Papa Gene”, and “The Chief”. He lived large and loved hard.

Gene grew up on the family farm idolizing his dad. He developed a strong work ethic and learned quickly to do whatever it takes to finish the drill. He was one of seven in his platoon of fifty to return stateside without injury. Gene worked as a helicopter crop duster and sprayed lakes and canals while in Central Florida. Gene once buzzed his parents while they were in the pea patch giving them one more confirmation of “that’s just Gene”.

Survivors include the love of his life, Lisa Dodson; his children, Gena & Kenny Kelley of Bainbridge, Robyn & Justin Strickland of Havana, Davelyne & Jacob McCoy of Myrtle Beach, SC, Kayla & Jason Hayes of Bainbridge; and Aubrey Powell of Climax; his eleven grandchildren; and his brother, Bobby Coulter of Gray, GA. In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by his sister, Jane.

Bryant Funeral Home, located at 105 N. Florida Street, is assisting the family with arrangements. (229-246-3321)