Nathan "Gene" Eugene Sizemore

Nathan Eugene Sizemore, known affectionately as "Gene," passed away on September 11, 2025, in Asheville, North Carolina, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering moral integrity. Born on May 17, 1942, in Madison County, NC, Gene was a proud graduate of Clyde High School, class of 1960. He went on to earn his Associate degree later in life, demonstrating his commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth.

Gene’s career began at Texaco Service Station in Hazelwood, followed by roles at Claude Woodard Service Station and SCM in Asheville. In 1980, he took the bold step of starting his own business, Advanced Business Equipment, which he successfully ran until his retirement in 2002. His work ethic and dedication were evident to all around him.

A man of incredible character, Gene served honorably in the United States Army with the 503rd Military Police at Fort Bragg, forging lifelong friendships and carrying with him a sense of pride and honor for his service. He was a treasured member of the American Legion Post 61 in Canton, where his contributions were deeply appreciated.

Gene was not only defined by his professional accomplishments but also by his tireless community involvement. He devoted 23 years to prison ministry in Hazelwood and participated in Campus Crusades with Billy Graham. His leadership extended to the Lions Club in Clyde, and for the past 40 years, he served on the board of the Clyde Fire Department. A dedicated member of Barbersville Baptist Church for 50 years, and later of Clyde First Baptist Church, Gene was a deacon, Sunday School teacher, and a witness for Christ, reflecting his deep faith and commitment to helping others.

Those who knew him saw him as nothing short of Superman, a loving, ethical, and moral person who found joy in everyone around him. His passion for life was evident through his hobbies, which included tending to his beloved vegetable garden, meticulously caring for his tractors, yard, and vehicles. He found joy in the simple things, nurturing both nature and relationships with equal fervor.

Gene is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Mary Phillips Sizemore; sons, Jennings Sizemore and wife Tammi of Canton, and Brian Sizemore and wife Shaundra of Canton; grandchildren who were his pride and joy, Kaylee Smathers, Justin Sizemore, and Junior Sizemore; and great-grandson, Rydge Smathers. He is also survived by his brother, Kenny Sizemore of Columbia, SC, alongside nephews Jeff Sizemore of Gastonia and Dewayne Sizemore of Columbia, SC.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Jennings Wilson Sizemore (1944) and Fredia Wilde Sizemore (2018); and his grandparents, Rev. Joe and Loan Wilde, and Onville and Fannie Sizemore, whose memories he held dear throughout his life.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service with Military Honors at 2:00 PM, at Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville. The committal service will follow at Garrett-Hillcrest Cemetery Mausoleum. Pastor Byron Burnette will be officiating the service. Gene's life exemplified kindness, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to his faith and family. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, leaving behind a light that will continue to inspire those left behind.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gene Sizemore's memory to Lions International, 300 W. 22nd Street, Oak Brook, IL 60523-8842 or online at www.lionsclubs.org/en/donate

The care of Mr. Sizemore has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.