Eugene Talmadge Neese

In the gentle embrace of his home in Newnan, Georgia, Eugene “Gene” Talmadge Neese slipped away peacefully on August 1, 2025, at the age of 91. His passing leaves a quiet void, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew his steadfast kindness, sharp wit, and quiet strength.

Born on March 19, 1934, in Coweta County, Gene spent most of his life in and around Newnan, a community he deeply loved. He was part of the Newnan High School Class of 1953 and proudly served in the United States Army. For many years, he worked at American Can and Federal Paper Board, later International Paper, where his strong work ethic and hands-on skill made him a valued colleague. Gene’s hands were those of a craftsman—he could fix just about anything, and often did.

He was tough as nails—but deathly afraid of spiders. A creature of habit, he was rarely without a peppermint in his pocket and had an unexpected love for romance novels and old westerns. He found satisfaction in simple routines, especially caring for his yard, which he mowed himself well into his 90s. Quick to laugh, quietly loyal, and deeply grounded, Gene lived a life marked by dependability, humility, and heart.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Frances McCollum Neese, originally from Moreland, Georgia, and a resident of Newnan. Together, they raised six children: Mark Neese (daughter Diedre), Toni Neese Johnson (sons Joseph [Bonnie] and the late Matthew), Terri Neese (son Josh [Kim]), Scott Neese (daughters Candace [Clayton] and Heather [Hank]), John Neese (daughters Meghan [Will], Rose [Stephen], and son Chris), and Jodi (Kevin) Groover (daughters Grace, Emily, and Charlotte). Gene and Frances were also blessed with 19 great-grandchildren, who filled their days with laughter and joy.

Gene is preceded in death by his grandson Matthew Neese; his parents, Gertie and Russell Neese; and his siblings J.R. Neese, Charlie Neese, Donald Neese, James Neese, and Shirley Neese Jones. He is survived by his brother Fred Neese and sister Gail Neese Rai, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family who loved and admired him.

A longtime member of First Christian Church of Newnan, Gene lived a life rooted in faith, family, and quiet devotion. He fixed what was broken, faced life’s challenges with humor and grit, and loved without needing to say it out loud. In honoring him, we remember a life well-lived—steady, generous, and true. His legacy rises like a crescendo of honor, a testament to a man whose quiet strength and boundless love will echo through the lives he touched forever.

A memorial service will be held at McKoon Funeral Home in Newnan on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Christian Church of Newnan, Georgia. Condolences may be expressed at www.mckoon.com or eugeneneese.me.