Eugene Kimbrell, Jr.

Eugene Kimbrell, Jr., affectionately known as Gene, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at the age of 86, surrounded by his beloved family. Born on December 24, 1938, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Gene was a man of deep commitment, both to his work and to his family.

Gene served honorably as a Tank Commander in the United States Army, a role that shaped his resilient character and demonstrated his bravery. He carried this sense of duty into his civilian life, where he not only provided for his family but also nurtured lasting relationships within his community.

A fabricator with Kusters/Zima Corporation, Gene embodied a hardworking spirit, often found transitioning from his job to his cherished farm. He took great pride in cultivating a thriving garden, sharing the fruits of his labor generously with family and friends, illustrating his loving nature and desire to connect with those around him. He was known all over Spartanburg County as the produce man at Kimbrell Corner who used the honor-system for people to pay for the produce he was known for: tomatoes, watermelons, okra and sweet potatoes. He collected and restored dozens of antique tractors. He loved bush hogging and enjoyed being outside with nature.

As a devoted member of Fairview Baptist Church, he actively participated in the Fellowship Sunday School Class, finding strength and companionship in faith. Gene's warmth and kindness touched many, leaving behind a legacy of love and generosity.

He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 65 years, Edith Waters Kimbrell; their daughter, Jan Kimbrell Lee (Eric) of Athens, GA; their son, Eugene Kimbrell, III (Kim) of Inman, SC; grandchildren, Katherine Lee (Eric) of Boston, MA, and Carson Lee of Athens, GA; and a sister, Toby Tillotson of Boiling Springs; Two devoted nieces Pam Johnson (Stephen) and Tena West (Steve); Brother-in-law Jimmy (Janet) Waters, long-time friends Doyle Tipton, Larry Huskey, Suzie Clement, Rick Hammett.

Gene was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Kelly Kimbrell, his parents Eugene Kimbrell, Sr. and Myrtle Berry Kimbrell; siblings, JoAnn Seay, Peggy Davis, Johnny Kimbrell, Clarence Kimbrell, Vernon Kimbrell and Teri Kimbrell.

Gene was loved and cared for daily for nine months by wonderful Comfort Keepers/caregivers: Kara Heffner, Tara Robinson, Starla Grant, Beyonce’ Briggs, Taurra Gist and Ebony Hall-Scott.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, February 23, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Floyds Boiling Springs Chapel in Boiling Springs, SC. His Funeral service will take place on Monday, February 24, 2025, at 12:30 PM at Fairview Baptist Church in Spartanburg, SC, Interment will follow at Boiling Springs Memorial Gardens.

Gene Kimbrell, Jr. will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend whose legacy will continue through the lives he touched.

Flowers are accepted or donations to Parkinson’s Disease Research in Gene’s honor.

The family sends a special thank you to Family Hospice who gave compassionate care.