Gene Whitlock
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Thomas Eugene (Gene) Whitlock passed away on April 30, 2022 at the age of 68. Despite the medical struggles of the past few months, Gene's love and courage for his family and friends stayed steady and strong.
Gene was born in Chamblee, Georgia; the oldest son of Betty Jean and Tom Whitlock (both deceased). As a young man, Gene's love for classic cars was fostered through his two favorite uncles, Ricky and Jerry Whitlock. This admiration of vintage automobiles continued throughout his life as he collected various ones with his dear friend Carl Harvey, his son Tony and his grandsons.
On June 20, 1970, Gene married the love of his life, Debbie Wilson; both were only 16 years old at the time. Soon their family grew to include a son, Tony. Heavy equipment and the construction industry became a center point in their lives and it navigated their future. Gene started his own business, Advanced Pipeline, Inc. in the early 1980's and he also partnered in an additional company, S & W Pipeline, Inc. Mr. Whitlock's businesses grew and he was greatly admired as a pinnacle of success with the Gwinnett County Area.
In 1996, Gene and Debbie moved to Morgan County where they started a new chapter of their life as Whitlock Farms, raising quail, broiler chickens and beef cattle. They have been successful contributors to the agricultural community, serving on several committees and volunteering their time and resources to the youth through 4-H.
Over the years, Gene has had a great impact on the local community; always providing a positive and optimistic view on life, kind advice and a humorous wit. He was a self-made man from humble beginnings, who valued the honesty of good hard work and common sense.
Gene is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Debbie; son Tony, daughter-in-law Kelly, and grandchildren William, Wyatt, Wesley and Katy Mae. His sisters Connie Yesian, Cathy Whitlock, Martha Bohannon. His siblings are Randy (Helen) Wilson, Kathy (Charles) Brewer, Roy (Robin) Wilson, Terry (Dottie) Wilson, Sholane (Donny) Leach, and Carl (Cindy) Harvey. He was blessed with numerous nephews, nieces , great nephews and great nieces; even a great-great nephew (Willie Carter).