Harold Eugene Middleton

Harold Eugene (Gene) Middleton age 85 passed away peacefully at home following a battle with Alzheimer's dementia and chronic kidney disease.

Gene retired from NC DOT with 33 years of service and held a variety of positions. He was a member of First Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon and enjoyed singing in the choir. He also made several mission trips to Poltova Ukraine where his group was building a church. Gene was proud of the fact that he was a US Marine.

He was proceeded in death by his parents John Coleman and Zadie Gibson Middleton; two brothers Earl and Clarence Middleton as well as an infant great grandson Silas Alan Lentz

He is survived by two children Gina M. Oakley and John Michael Middleton both of Sylva. Grandchildren Jacob A. Oakley (Tracy), Caleb. Oakley (Karen), and Hannah Oakley Lentz Nelson (Hunter). Great grandchildren Ryleigh and Hudson Oakley, Maysie and Blakely Lentz, and Maverick Nelson, Noah and Elijah Lentz. Brother, Robert Middleton (Becky).

Gene was cared for prior to and during the duration of his illness by his former wife Dana Middleton.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Appalachian Funeral Services. Rev. Joe Yelton will be officiating.  Visitation will be held from 11:00am-1:00pm prior to the service at the funeral home. 

An online obituary is available at www.appalachianfuneralservices.com.