Pastor "Gene" Eugene Chitwood

God, in His infinite wisdom, closed the book of life on Pastor Eugene "Gene" Chitwood, 87, of Martinsville, Virginia, on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at his residence while surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 5, 1936, in Stanleytown, Virginia, to the late George W. Chitwood and Annie Hall Chitwood. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by, his first wife, Patricia Chitwood, five brothers, three sisters, and their spouses.

Pastor Chitwood served his country with pride in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1957. He was born again, on January 8, 1958. He was later the founder of Grace Christian School in Alpine, Tennessee, in 1976 and 1977. He was in the gospel ministry for 66 years. In his 66 years, he pastored seven churches in North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. He had the privilege of ordaining five men during his ministry, and two of them were foreign missionaries. He also taught at Temple Bible Institute for several years. The Lord used him to conduct many church camps and vacation bible schools throughout his ministry. He served his Lord faithfully for 66 years, preaching, and singing, about Jesus. His legacy will live on in the many people he touched.

Pastor Chitwood is survived by, his loving wife of 37 years, Sammye Chitwood. He is also survived by three daughters, Joanna Hargis (Buck), Victoria Green (Mike), and Pam Taylor (Rodney); two sons, Jon Chitwood (Donna) and Ben Chitwood (Jamie); 14 grandchildren, Rachel (Sam) Heath, Mitchell Gayle, Kristin Hoover, Michael Laman, Sara Griffin (Parker), Patrick Pruitt, Sommer Oakes (Chase), Matthew Taylor, Nathan Smith, Ethan Chitwood, Connor Chitwood, Hayley Smith, Sadie Chitwood, and Foster Chitwood; and 13 great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at Bassett Funeral Service Chapel from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Bassett Funeral Service Chapel, with Ben Chitwood officiating. The burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Providence Baptist Church, by mailing donations to 2861 Providence Church Rd, Henry, VA 24102.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.bassettfuneralservice.com. Bassett Funeral Service is serving the Chitwood family.