Gene Michael Whitten

He was born in Sanford, Florida on August 21, 1945, to Claude and Mary Ellen (née Wyatt) Whitten. Gene spent his formative years in Sanford and loved telling stories about growing up with his family, including his grandparents, uncles, cousins and his rambunctious brothers. His high school years were partially spent in the Philippines when his father was assigned to Sangley Point Naval Base as Fire Chief. Gene even got to star in a movie while living the high life there. His family returned to Sanford when the assignment was over and he graduated from Seminole High School in 1963.

He proudly served in the United States Air Force for over 25 years, and while stationed in Taiwan he met the love of his life, Connie, to whom he would be married to for 55 years. His pride and joy, Jeannie was born in 1971 and three years later his son, John, was born, soon becoming his right-hand-man. The family was especially close, experiencing many adventures together and having so many late nights just talking into the early hours of morning.

A lifelong learner; Gene earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree from Rollins College and a Master’s degree in Economics from the Florida Institute of Technology. A history buff, he loved to read and enjoyed watching war dramas and British detective series.

You wouldn’t be able to tell by looking at his tall and lean frame but he was a real gourmand. He didn’t discriminate when it came to food. He loved processed junk food equally as much as fresh caught seafood or a nice quality steak. He often reminisced about his grandmother’s home baked cakes! He especially loved to brag about his dear wife Connie’s exceptional cooking.

Those who knew Gene, knew he was a big talker. He could talk for hours and loved to tell jokes. A lot of the stories were repeated, but always with the same passion and vivid imagery. He could strike up a conversation with most anyone and find some commonality.

Gene was preceded in death by parents, Claude Michael and Mary Ellen Whitten; brothers Ronald Charles Whitten and Timothy Claude Whitten (Darlene). Gene is survived by his wife, Connie, daughter, Jeannie Gray (Jeff) and son, John. Grandchildren, Lindsay Gray, Michael Gray, Veronika Whitten, and Lorelai Whitten. His brother Terrance (Christine), sister-in-law, Joyce Whitten, and beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Gene will be laid to rest with full military honors at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida on 28 August 2025 at 13:00, 6502 SW 102nd Ave, Bushnell, FL 33513.