Gene Ditmore

Raymond Eugene (Gene) Ditmore 86, heard the trumpets call him to his Heavenly home February 10, 2024. Gene was born in Hydro, Ok on June 24, 1937, to Raymond and Stella (Foreman) Ditmore. Gene graduated from Vernon High School in 1955. Gene was a salesman for Wilson Packing Company 1958 to 1971. Transferred to Abilene in 1967, met and married his truly best friend for life Patricia Roberts on February 14, 1972.

Gene had 29 years in Radio and TV in Abilene. He served as President of the Taylor County Expo Center and various civic boards including, Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau, Dyess Military Affairs, Abilene Chambers of Commerce, Boy Scouts of America and member of Pioneer Drive Baptist Church. Gene was Past Master of John Sayles Masonic Lodge #1408, and a 32nd degree Mason for over 50 years.

While serving as General Sales Manger at KEAN Radio, he helped form the KEAN "Big Bass Classic" and was a key figure for many years in its success. Gene was an avid outdoorsman and loved spending time on their farm in Coleman County. He was well known for his quick wit and sense of humor and often called the "King of the one liners".

Preceding him in death: His father, Raymond Gordon Ditmore; mother, Stella Ditmore-Staton; bonus mother, Marie Ballard; one brother, Roy Dean Ditmore; two sisters, Carol Milner and Janie Ezzell - Payne. 

Gene is survived by his wife, Patricia; four children, David Ditmore of Forney, Tx, Debbie Wharton and Randy of Eastland, William Ditmore and Tammy of Texarkana, and Debbie Fortner of Lometa; one brother, Kim Ditmore and wife Judy of Vernon. Eleven grand-children and 8 great-grandchildren

A Celebration of Life services will be held at Pioneer Drive Baptist Church on March 2, 2024 at 10:00 AM with Pastor Dr. Jeff Reid. 

Memorials may be given to: Pioneer Drive Baptist Church, 701 So. Pioneer Drive Abilene, Tx 79605 Nehemiah Program or Rehab Hospice of the Big Country, 4601 Hartford Abilene, Tx 79605