Robert Eugene "Gene" Minter

Robert Eugene Minter, commonly known as "Gene", age 93, of McDonough, Georgia passed away on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at his home. He was born in Jenkinsburg, Georgia, the son of the late Ray Eugene Minter and Naomi Penina Hayes Minter ("Oma"). In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife, Peggy Richardson Minter, and a sister, Talitha Minter Russell.
Gene was a proud Henry County native and member of the McDonough High School Class of 1949. Known in his youth as an exceptional baseball player, Gene's talent on the field was so remarkable that his classmates still talk about it today. He grew up on a cotton farm, where he learned early the values of dependability and perseverance, traits that became the foundation of the man he was throughout his life. Gene's word was his bond, and everyone who knew him knew they could count on him. He was dependable, devoted, and a steady presence for those he loved.
Following his service in the United States Navy, Gene enjoyed a long and successful 35-year career with Western Electric, which later became part of AT&T. He held numerous electrician positions over the years. Even after retiring, Gene simply couldn't sit still. Over the last 38 years, he stayed active in the community by driving a truck for the local geranium nursery, moving fleet vehicles for Bellamy Strickland, and lending his reliable hands wherever they were needed.
A lifelong car enthusiast, Gene found joy in a good project in the shop. He once proudly said he had restored 78 vehicles over his lifetime, from sleek sports cars to classic pickup trucks, and each one reflected his talent, patience, and eye for detail.
His proudest accomplishment was a true love story that began shortly after he returned home from the Navy. At a legion hall dance, he met a beautiful young 19-year-old lady, Peggy, and the spark between them never faded. They married, built a beautiful life together, and shared 68 years of marriage before her passing just six weeks ago. Their partnership was the heart of Gene's world, and together they raised two wonderful children who were the pride of their lives.
He leaves behind his son, Howard Bart Minter (Kimberly); daughter, Regena Minter Barber (David); grandsons, Jackson Minter, Garrison Minter, Charles E. Barber-Loera (Ricky), Myles Weathersby, Riley Weathersby, and Jackson Weathersby; granddaughter, Rachel Irby McCall (Allen); great-grandsons, Winn McCall and Wilkes McCall; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A graveside service to honor Gene's life will take place on Thursday, December 4, 2025, beginning 2:00 PM, at Bethany Baptist Church Cemetery, 4 N Bethany Rd, McDonough, GA 30252. Inurnment of Gene and Peggy's remains will take place following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to McDonough Presbyterian Church, https://www.mcdonoughpresbyterian.org/give, or A Friend's House, https://www.afriendshouse.org/donate. Those who wish may sign the online guest registry at www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com. Cannon Cleveland Funeral Directors, 770-914-1414.