Longtime Butler County Commissioner Eugene “Gene” Wasden passed away Thursday.

Wasden, 88, served as a commissioner for 32 years.

“When you think about the great leaders in our county, Mr. Wasden ranks right up there at the top,” Butler County Commission Chairman Jesse McWilliams said. “He was well thought of in the county and served our county in the highest regard. He was just a fine person.”

McWilliams said Wasden’s name is often mentioned at county commission seminars across the state.

“Anytime I am anyplace and county government or the county commission comes up, Mr. Wasden’s name is mentioned,” McWilliams said. “He was certainly influential in county government for a long time, and on many occasions after he had finished serving on the commission I would go and ask him questions about something with the county government and he was always helpful. We will definitely miss him.”

Wasden, a life long resident of Sandcut, was self-employed in road construction for many years. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and earned five battle stars during his service.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 2 p.m. at Dunklin & Daniels Funeral Home in Greenville. Rev. Watson Wasden and Rev. Bob Garrard will officiate.

Visitation will be held Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. at Dunklin & Daniels Funeral Home. Burial will be in Sunrise Memorial Park.

To read the complete obituary click here.