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Eugene Hensley, 98, widower of Opal Riggs Hensley, passed away Tuesday, June 27, 2023. Born in Lee County on January 11, 1925, he was the son of the late Walden and Mary Hammond Hensley.

As a young man he joined the United Sates Navy so he could serve our country during World War II. He set foot aboard the Lyman K. Swenson DD-729 where he severed as a signalman in many Pacific Island Campaigns.

In the early 1960’s he served as fire chief for the Winchester volunteer fire department. He also mastered his hand as a diesel and auto mechanic.

He was always doing for his neighbors. You would often find him mowing yards in the summer and shoveling snow in the winter. He was up for helping no matter the task. He was known for his line “I’m still here” when asked “how are you?” by everyone who had the pleasure of being around him.

When his wife was diagnosed with dementia, it was he who was there to accept the role as caretaker. From driving her to church, emotional support, and physical care, it was all done with love and never asked for help. He never sought recognition or compensation simply because he was unsung. All he has done has been selfless and unconditional.

He is survived by his sons, Donald Joe (Barbara) Rice, Larry (Martina) Hensley, Mike (Mary) Hensley; grandchildren, Jill Marie (Chad) Walker, Leslie Erin (Phillip) Hatton, Darrell Eugene Hensley, Mary Elizabeth (Brandon) Hensley Gillespie; great grandchildren, Reese Hatton, Savannah Hatton, Violet Hensley, and August Gillespie.

Service will be held 12:00pm, Monday, July 3, 2023, at the Leon Pace Memorial Chapel next to Scobee Funeral Home by Rev. Mike Chism. Burial will follow in the Winchester Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Darrell Hensley, Brandon Gillespie, Chad Walker, Stewart Berryman, Phillip Hatton, and Kelsey Hensley. Honorary pallbearers are Janelle Johnson, Teresa Chism, and Betty “Tater” Dickerson.

Visitation will be from 12:00pm until the time of service on Monday, July 1, 2023, at the Leon Pace Memorial Chapel.