Gene Edwin “Smiley” Hesson

Gene Edwin “Smiley” Hesson, 83, of Whipple, passed away on Friday, February 2, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Gene attended Dexter City High School. He served 4 years in the Marines at Camp Lejeune, SC, where his duties included supply truck driver. After an Honorable Discharge, he returned home and continued his trade as a self employed semi-truck driver.

Gene is survived by his wife Mary Hesson whom he married December 18, 1965. Gene is also survived by his two children, Randal (Jeannie) Hesson and Crystal (Brad) Nice; grandchildren, Kyle and Derik (Rylee) Hesson and Ava Nice; his two great grandchildren, Wyatt and Parker Hesson, one sibling Sue Dickson and two very special people that were like family to him, Courtney and Brayden McCauley.

Gene was preceded in death by his first-born son, Terry, his parents Max and Thelma Hesson and siblings, Homer, Wayne (Buck) Hesson, June Fiorenzo and Joanne Matheney.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday (Feb.7) at McClure-Schafer-Lankford Funeral Home with Kevin Rinkes officiating.  Burial will follow in Salem Township Cemetery with Military Rites. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8. Messages of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.Lankfordfh.com.