Gene Pritchard, 72, of Shelby passed away on Sunday, Jan. 16 at home following a bout with cancer. A native of Burke County, he spent 40 years in the trucking industry, part of that time as an owner operator. He was a history buff who enjoyed antiquing, talking politics, fishing in his boat, and family vacations at the beach.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Pansy Pritchard and two brothers, Dane Pritchard and Kevin Pritchard. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Patsy Pritchard of the home, daughter Danielle and husband Justin of Clayton, NC, sister Sharon Price and husband Larry of Morganton, many special nieces and nephews, and his precious grandchildren, Grayson and Ava.

A celebration of life ceremony will be held Thursday, Jan. 20 at 3 p.m. at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home in Shelby with the Rev. Tony Tench officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society or Hospice of Cleveland County.