Don Eugene Deese

Don Eugene “Gene” Deese, age 80, of Panama City Beach, Florida, passed away on March 9, 2026. Born on February 1, 1946, in Bay County, Florida, to the late David Wilmer Deese and Bertha Inez Deese, Gene grew up with a strong sense of duty and quiet determination that would shape his life.

He proudly served two years in the United States Navy Seabees before devoting more than thirty years to restaurant maintenance, where his strong work ethic and dependable nature earned the respect of those around him. In his free time, Gene found joy in woodworking, taking great pride in the pieces he crafted with his own hands. Above all, he will be remembered for his warm sense of humor, his kindness, and the deep love he held for his family and children.

Gene is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis Newsome Deese; his son, Micah Lynn Deese, and daughter-in-law, Melissa Blanchard Deese; and his cherished grandson, Wyatt Mitchell Deese. He is also survived by his brother, Royce Lavon Deese of Bay County, Florida, along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will remember him fondly. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers and two sisters.

Guided throughout his life by the words of Micah 6:8—“He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God”—Gene lived with integrity, humility, and love. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.