Vernon Gene Winner, 93, of Meredosia, IL, died Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy.

He was born July 24, 1930, in Virginia, the son of Vernon and Violet (Maddox) Winner. Gene married Evelyn Milstead and she survives.

He is also survived by his children, Randy (Peggy) Winner of Jacksonville, Tamara "Tammy" Hood (deceased husband, Larry) of Hannibal, MO, Dale (Dianna) Winner of Mt. Sterling, Carolyn Lowe of Meredosia, and Melanie (Brian) Six of Jacksonville; six grandchildren; and three great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his two sisters, Joanne Winner and Doris Starkweather.

Gene was in the U.S. Air Force for 4 years. He was stationed at Scott Airforce Base in Illinois. When Gene married Evelyn, he started his career as a truck driver. He later worked for Ameren in Meredosia and retired from there. After retirement, he drove for West Central Mass Transit for almost 10 years. He loved to drive and travel. When his kids were younger, he would often take his family on road trips while trucking. He was a great dad.

A memorial graveside service will be held at a later date. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Meredosia is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left online at buchanancody.com.