Gene Gray Powers, 81, of Maple Hill passed gently from his earthly life on Wednesday, May 25, 2016 at his home.

He was born October 3, 1934 in Pender County, the son of Eugene Kitchen Powers and Gladys Lanier Powers.

Gene is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sue Moore Powers; sons, Stanley Powers (Gloria) and Joseph Powers (Marcia); daughters, Kimberly Powers Barnhill (Jacob) and Sonya Powers (Wesley Cook); grandchildren, Amber Lisiewski (Craig), Jake Barnhill (Audrey), Shelby Powers, Austin Powers (Kay) and Justin Barnhill; four great grandchildren; brothers, David Powers (Shirley Jarman) and Glenn Powers, (Brenda); sisters, Hilda Raines, Faye Larkins (Jack), Carolyn Maiorino (Tony), and Betty Rowe (Jeryl); many nieces and nephews; and best friend and constant canine companion, Lady.

Gene was a Pender County farmer and surveyor for many years. During the Korean Conflict he served proudly in the US Navy. He was a faithful member of Maple Hill Missionary Baptist Church. Still going strong is Bull Branch Hunting Club which Gene was instrumental in starting. Gene's motto in life was "Never get excited".

Being a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Gene took wonderfully good care of his family. He loved being outdoors in God's beautiful world … farming, hunting or enjoying nature's blessings. Gene's primary passions were his Christian faith, loving family and cherished friends. Gene was loved and will be greatly missed.

The family will receive friends 10 to 12 noon on Saturday, May 28, 2016 at Maple Hill Missionary Baptist Church with service at 12 noon. The Rev Mickey Cox will officiate the service. Burial will follow in Powers Cemetery.

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