Howard Eugene "Gene" Epperly

Raleigh- Howard Eugene “Gene” Epperly, 77, of Raleigh passed away September 9, 2014 at Windsor Point Retirement Community in Fuquay-Varina surrounded by Family and Friends. He leaves behind his wife of 54 years Rebecca “Sue” Epperly.

He was born November 20, 1936 in London, WV. He was the son of James Noah and Virgie King Epperly.

He graduated from Concord University in Athens, WV in 1962 with a BS in Education.

He retired as an Agency Director after working for State Farm Insurance for 30 years.

Also surviving are a son, Keith Epperly of Clayton; a daughter, Gina Tickle (husband, Chuck Tickle) of Raleigh; grandchildren, Chase and Morgan Tickle. He is also survived by sister-in-law, Tammy Thompson (husband, Cliff) and their daughter, Brittany of Richmond, VA; two sisters, Elizabeth Hughes of Narrows, VA and Juanita Hare of Phoenix, AZ.

He was an avid golfer and tennis player and loved all sports. He was known for his compassion, kindness and positive spirit and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was deeply grateful for all of God’s blessings and often said he was the luckiest person in the world.

A graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Friday, September 12, 2014 at Wake Memorial Park in Cary. Brown-Wynne Funeral Home in Cary is assisting the family with arrangements.

Immediately following the service a reception will be held at White Plains United Methodist Church 313 SE Maynard Rd. Cary, NC 27511 for family and friends.

The family would like to thank Windsor Point for their wonderful care and support as well as Mary Bullock, Trey Stanley, and Neil and Linda Soeder for their loving care. Also the Prestonwood Links Bible Study Group for their kindness.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to Transitions LifeCare of Wake County or The Wounded Warrior Project.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through www.brownwynnecary.com.