Eugene H. Fincher, a longtime resident of Belford, passed away peacefully Aug. 31, 2021, at the age of 84, surrounded by his loving family who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest.
Eugene was born July 23, 1937, in Decatur, Tennessee, to the late Belle and James Fincher. Eugene’s family moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where he was raised, and eventually they moved to Akron, Ohio, where he met the love of his life, Barbara Blankenship. They were married in 1960 and Eugene enlisted in the United States Army in 1961. He was deployed to Germany where he served his country until 1966. Upon returning from his enlistment, Eugene secured a job with the Ford Motor Company in Metuchen where he retired after 45 years of employment.
Eugene enjoyed showing off his 1955 Ford T-Bird at classic car shows. He could always be found at home watching NASCAR or his favorite baseball team, the Yankees, on the television. Eugene also enjoyed trips to Atlantic City. An avid dog lover, Eugene is now reunited with his beloved Yorkie, Molly.
He will be fondly remembered as a kind and loving man; a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and a good neighbor who was always there to lend a helping hand.
Eugene is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Barbara (Blankenship) Fincher and their two daughters, Kimberly, wife of Kenneth Smith, of Middletown, and Starla, widow of Larry Kosiorowski, of Delaware. Eugene also leaves behind a sister, Mary Peat, of Florida; seven grandchildren whom he loved, adored and was so very proud of, Ashley, Jessicya and her husband Dan, James, Zachary and his wife Tabitha, Courtney, Dylan and Michael; five great-grandchildren, Harleigh, McKenna, Bentley, Kayson and Landon; and many nieces and nephews.
Eugene was predeceased by his siblings, Jackie Fincher, Roy Fincher, J.C. Fincher and Edna Fagan, along with his grandson Jason.
It was Eugene’s wishes that the services be private for the immediate family. The family would like to extend their gratitude to all of the staff in 3 East at Riverview Medical Center for their kindness and excellent care given to Eugene in his final days.
The article originally appeared in the September 9 – 15, 2021 print edition of The Two River Times.
