Gene Autry Hurst Sr.

Gene A. Hurst, Sr., age 76, died after a brief illness on Friday, June 12, 2015. Gene was married to the love of his life, Kate Fore, for nearly 30 years. Born in Blackshear, Georgia, he was one of twelve children born to Pink and Sallie Hurst. Gene retired from the City of Jacksonville, Property Appraiser’s Office after 39 years of service.

Gene is survived by his siblings,Hershell Hurst (Ruby), Jewell Partain and Sallie Karsten (Kit). He also leaves behind four children, Gail, Gene, Jr., Thomas and Andrew. Gene served his country in the US Army. He was an active volunteer with Boys Scouts of America, serving as Scoutmaster to Troop 136 for many years. During his term of service he guided 19 young men to Eagle Scout rank. His was extremely proud that his three sons attained the rank of Eagle. Gene was an avid hunter, fisherman, golfer, gardener and Georgia Bulldog fan. He loved to be outdoors and his yard was lush with thick grass, flowers and vegetables year round. He served on the building committee and in the Kitchen Ministry for many years at Southside Baptist Church. Gene touched many lives with his cheerful spirit. He will be sorely missed.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2015 at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Chapel from 5-8:00pm. A memorial service will be held at Southside Baptist Church, 1435 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville at 2:00 on Wednesday, June 17, 2015. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy should be made in the form of contributions to Boy Scouts of America, North Florida Council.

Please Sign the guestbook at www.hardage-giddensoaklawnchapel.com

HARDAGE-GIDDENS, THE OAKLAWN CHAPEL, 4801 San Jose Blvd is serving the family.