Burgess Eugene "Gene" Thaxton

Burgess Eugene Thaxton, always known as "Gene" age 84, passed away peacefully at his home on October 13, 2025, surrounded by the love of all of his of his family. Gene was a talented artist, and he had a very creative spirit, he began his real life long working dream ambition as an artist, after his military service, at WFSU TV as an Art Department Assistant Art Director, he then went on to serve as the Art Director at WCTV channel 6. Then worked as the Art Director at Lamar Outdoor Advertisement Company but, had an entrepreneurial spirit that wouldn't wait, so at around 30 years of age, in order to fulfill his dream, he founded Creative Signs; for years, located at a place now known as Railroad Square, in Tallahassee, Florida. There he enjoyed great success in the commercial art and sign business in Tallahassee and the surrounding areas. Gene's work was always top grade; he had great pride in his creations and was a perfectionist. Gene was very proud to have served his country in the United States Coast Guard as a 1st Class Boatswain's Mate in New York City, New York, where his main job was rescuing those in peril. Gene led an eclectic life from young to old. He loved racing and drove a stock car briefly and won some trophies during that time. He loved music, played the guitar and sang, often in his latter years with his friends at the Senior Center in Crawfordville. He also was a longtime community volunteer with the US Forestry service and sometimes the Senior center in Crawfordville. Gene was a passionate FSU football fan. Gene was an avid sportsman. His love for the outdoors remained constant throughout his life — he found great joy in fishing, hunting, and camping, often sharing those moments with loved ones. Gene attended Pioneer Baptist Church and cherished his church family, finding strength and connection in his faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents, Burgess and Wynona Thaxton, and his beloved granddaughter, Amy Clemons. He is survived by his loving wife, Peggy Sue Thaxton; his daughter, Tammy Jean Gill (Ronnie); his son, Michael Eugene Thaxton; six grandchildren — Robert, Christopher, Monica, Rose, John Michael and Andrew; and nine great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense pride and joy. A Church Memorial Celebration of Life service (the day prior to the burial service) will be held at Pioneer Baptist Church, 486 Beachwood Dr. Crawfordville, Florida, on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. A Memorial Service with Military Honors will be held at the National Cemetery in Tallahassee, Florida, on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Gene will be remembered for his creativity, his deep love for family and friends his quiet strength, and his appreciation for the simple beauty of the natural world. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and artistic passion. Skip & Trey Young along with Paula and Heather are assisting the family.

Burgess Eugene "Gene" Thaxton

February 13, 1941 - October 13, 2025