Mr. Gene Hatton

Fred Eugene “Gene” Hatton Age: 78 years A resident of rural Simpson, Illinois. Passed away Tuesday morning, December 11, 2012, at 12:26 AM at his home. Gene was born February 14, 1934 in the Wartrace community in Johnson County, IL. He was the son of Fred D. & Ruby (Alsip) Hatton. Gene was united in marriage to Mary Rebecca “Becky” Allen on October 4, 1952 in Vienna, Illinois. She survives. Other survivors include: A Daughter – Ramona Jean McDowell, and her husband Raymond, of Houston, TX A Son – Richard Allen Hatton of Simpson, IL 2 Grandchildren – Lindsey LaKota Rodriguez of Houston, TX Benjamin McDowell of Houston, TX 3 Great Grandchildren – Sarah, Ruby, and Ralen His Foster Mother – Fran Stewart of Vienna, IL 3 Nephews, a Grand Niece, and several Cousins In addition to his Parents, Gene was preceded in death by: 2 Brothers – Alvin L. Hatton and Donald Ray Hatton 2 Sisters – Jane Perkins and Sue Schierbaum Gene was a graduate of Vienna High School. He also attended a 4 year Journeyman Electrical Training Course. He was employed in the machine shop of Austin-Western Manufacturing Co. in Aurora and also had served as a representative of a cookware company. Gene was a 50+ year Journeyman Electrician and member of the I.B.E.W. (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) Union Local # 716. Gene was a devoted Christian and an ordained minister. During the 1960’s and early 1970’s, Gene served for approximately 12 years as superintendent of the early teenage youth at the First Baptist Church in South Houston, Texas. After returning to Southern Illinois, he served briefly as interim pastor of Oak Grove Baptist Church, New Salem Baptist Church, and Bethlehem Baptist Church. More recently, Gene and Becky attended the Walnut Grove Baptist Church, near New Burnside, Illinois. Gene enjoyed the simple pleasures of rural farm life. Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon, December 14, 2012, at 1 PM at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Pastor Jack Richardson will officiate. Burial will be in the Vienna Fraternal Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11 AM – 1 PM Friday at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675.

Mr. Gene Hatton

February 14, 1934 - December 11, 2012