Obituary of Thomas Eugene Gallant

Ocala - Thomas Eugene (Gene) Gallant, 86, passed away on Aug. 1, 2011 at his residence. He was born in Ocala and was a fifth generation resident of Marion County. He retired as the first Fire Marshall of Marion County and was instrumental in organizing many of the present Marion County Fire Rescue Departments. He was a member of Oakcrest Baptist Church and served his country in the U.S. Navy during WWII. He was also a historian for the Silver River Museum, He started Junior Wildlife Club, member of Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp No. 730, Military Order of the Stars & Bars and the Bonnie Blue Society. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Marion Gallant of Ocala, his sons, Steve Gallant and his wife Mary of Ocala and Clinton Gallant and his wife Tori of Citra, his sister, Elaine Stebbins of Ocala, his grandchildren, Sherrie, Bonnie, Sabrina and Tabitha, his seven great grandchildren and his two great great grandchildren. A private memorial service will be held later. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hospice of Marion County. Arrangements by Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, Ocala