Casper "Gene" Eugene Eppes Jr.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Casper Eugene “Gene” Eppes, 88, of Virginia Beach, VA, on December 25, 2024. Gene was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose warmth, dedication, and adventurous spirit touched the lives of many.

Born on January 25, 1936, in Hampton, VA, Gene spent much of his life in Portsmouth and Suffolk, VA, and at Lake Gaston, NC. He had a distinguished career as a civilian engineer for the U.S. Department of Defense, where he worked on building and troubleshooting aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines at Newport News Shipbuilding. Retiring at 55, Gene began his own business, allowing him the flexibility to support his wife living with MS, serving as an extraordinary example of unconditional love.

Gene’s love for the outdoors and the water defined much of his life. Whether hunting at the 604 Hunt Club or saltwater fishing, he found joy and camaraderie with family, friends and in nature. His passion for boating began at the age of 8, when he purchased his first boat with money earned from a paper route, and it remained a lifelong pursuit. Even at 78, he was thrilled to acquire his final boat, Enchantress. Beyond his personal pursuits, Gene was committed to his community. He held many leadership roles in the Lake Gaston Lions Club, where he devoted himself to serving the blind, especially through his work with Camp Dogwood.

Gene is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Mary Nell Berry Eppes; his daughters, Susan Ohmsen (Scott) and Beth Dubinsky (David); his grandchildren, Casey Ohmsen (Jeni), Rachel Braun, and Nick Braun; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

A celebration of Gene’s life will be held on what would have been his 89th birthday, January 25, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Great Neck Chapel, in Virginia Beach. A reception will follow immediately, where family and friends can gather to honor Gene’s memory and share in his love for life, including enjoying his favorite treat – a dessert bar.