Gene Epperson

Gene Earl Epperson passed away peacefully at home, surrounded in love, on the morning of Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at the age of 85. He was born in Detroit, Michigan March 4, 1935 to Louise and Earl Epperson and grew up in Madison Heights. He is now free from the Alzheimer's he was diagnosed with eight years ago. He is loved and will be dearly missed by his loving family including his wife of 62 years, Grace (Pickard) Epperson; his son Douglas (Sue) Epperson; his daughter Diane (Jeff) Epperson Balagna; three grandchildren, Lauren (Dan) Balagna Miller, Brittany (Brett) Balagna Nystedt, James (Jenn) Epperson; and three great-grandchildren Ethan Miller, Madilyn Miller, and Maclean Nystedt. He also leaved behind two brothers, Patrick Epperson and Gary Epperson. His brother Richard Epperson predeceased him. Gene had a great faith in God, love for people and a passion for cars and music. He worked for General Motors at the Tech Center for 29 years, retiring in 1990. He loved his church, Utica United Methodist in Sterling Heights, singing for many years in the choir and helping to found and lead the United Methodist Men's group and care for those going through a hard time with his involvement in MCREST. You can be sure that if you met him, he called you a friend and he prayed for you. His grandchildren were especially fond of his ability to generously listen, tell a great story and cheer you with a good joke. He loved old cars, could tell you details at length of each one and enjoyed many, many car shows. He could often be seen talking and then sharing pictures via personally crafted cds. If you asked him about his 1951 Buick convertible, you were in for a treat and most likely remember his pride and joy that knew no bounds. Gene's love and gift for music included playing the piano by ear, the banjo and also the trumpet. Gene lived a life well-lived, leaving a legacy of compassion for others. grace, good humor and strength of character. The world is a better place for Gene having been with us all. Memorials may be given to Utica United Methodist Church, 8650 Canal Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48314 to the Music Program or MCREST. A celebration of Gene's will be held at a later date. Please share a memory at www.SullivanFuneralDirectors.com

Gene Epperson

March 5, 1935 - May 20, 2020