FRANKTON – Basil E. ‘Gene’ Wise, age 96, of Frankton, passed away on Friday, Feb. 24, 2023, at Bethany Pointe Health Campus.

Gene was born in Hamilton County on July 19, 1926, to the late Leslie and Helen (Valentine) Wise.

On Oct. 2, 1948, he married Phyllis (Gooding) Wise and they shared 68 wonderful years of marriage.

Gene served his country in the US Army during WWII. He was a part of the 43rd Infantry which was stationed in the Pacific Theater. He then worked at Delco Remy in Anderson and retired in 1977.

He was a member of Bethany Christian Church for 40 years, Gene is survived by his loving daughter, Vicki Vanderbur of Anderson; a son, David Wise of Frankton; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sisters, Shirley Wisman and Nancy Hazelbaker; and several nieces and nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie and Helen Wise; wife Phyllis Wise; a granddaughter; and several siblings.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 1, 2023, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Harper & Dunnichay Funeral Home, 305 Sigler St. in Frankton. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 2, 2023, at the funeral home, with Pastors Bob Bell and Tim Fair officiating.

Burial will follow the funeral service in the K of P and IOOF Cemetery in Frankton with military graveside services conducted by the US Army and the Elwood VFW Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Online condolences can be given at www.dunnichayfuneralhome. com