Gene Hisel

Lester Eugene "Gene" Hisel, a beloved figure in the Selma and Valley Grande communities, passed away on October 25, 2025 at Southeast Health in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 76. He was born on May 24, 1949 in Louisville, Kentucky to the late John Riley Hisel and Mabel Irene McGrew Hisel. Gene was a dedicated and skilled mechanic, renowned for his entrepreneurial spirit throughout his life. He owned and operated several mechanic shops, including Mid-Town BP, Holiday Inn BP, and Highland Avenue BP, as well as Raceway and Valley Grande Grocery, among other ventures. His commitment to his craft was evident, as he poured his heart into everything he did.

Gene was not only a business owner but also a proud member of the community. He graduated from Seymore High School in Seymore, Indiana, and later pursued a degree in Criminal Justice at Wallace Community College. His education laid the foundation for a life dedicated to service, marked by his time in the United States Air Force, where he served as an MP during the Vietnam conflict. Gene proudly carried out his duties overseas, showing distinguished service and a commitment to his country.

Faith played a central role in Gene’s life. A devoted member of Northside Baptist Church, he served as a deacon and was passionate about sharing his love for the Lord. Gene’s generosity extended beyond the church, as he volunteered alongside his friends Kathy and Jerry Smith at Helping Hearts. Together, they made a tangible difference in the lives of seniors and veterans in the Selma Area, from packing and distributing boxes and bags for seniors and veterans at Selma Area Food Bank to community events like the Annual First Responders Appreciation Day that reflected their shared mission of helping others.

Gene was known not only for his hard work but also for his light-heartedness and humor. He loved sharing "dad jokes" and funny puns that brought smiles to those around him. His warmth and kindness left a lasting impact on family and friends alike, who cherished his ability to brighten any day with laughter. At home, Gene found joy in simple pleasures, particularly with his beloved tractor, which became a symbol of his connection to his land. Whether it was busting up beaver dams at his ponds or bushhogging around the Rountree Lake, Gene loved spending time outdoors, immersed in the beauty of nature. Although he playfully took his tractor on escapades such as driving it to the BP for fuel, his delight in these activities spoke to his youthful spirit.

Gene also held a deep love for his city, demonstrated by his bid for Mayor and City Council President in Selma. His dedication to Selma and Valley Grande never wavered, embodying the spirit of a true community leader. Gene’s love for family was paramount in his life. He shared a deep bond with his late wife, Brenda Bennett Hisel, who preceded him in death in 2018. Their love story was a testament to the lasting power of companionship.

He is survived by his three children, Melissa Hisel (Vance) Bishop, Heather Hisel (Corey) Cole and Patrick Eugene (Mary Kathryn) Hisel; his special friends, Kathy and Jerry Smith; grandchildren, Hannah Cole, Chase Shipman, Hayden Cole, Drew Hisel, Haley Cole, Addison Hisel, Sara Hisel, Emma Hisel and Brenly Hisel always put a smile on his face; sisters, Barbara Hampton, Linda Wyatt, Brenda (Jack) Sawin , Betty Dyer; brother, Carl Hisel and a host of nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Pineview Memory Gardens in Valley Grande with Rev. Mike Wyatt officiating and Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home of Selma directing. Visitation will be at Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home in Selma on Monday, October 27, 2025 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Pallbearers will be Corey Cole, Vance Bishop, Hayden Cole, Drew Hisel, Chase Shipman and Jerry Smith.