Obituary

Joseph “Gene” Zimmerman, a cherished husband, devoted brother, and loving father passed away at age 86 after a lengthy illness.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, Gene’s journey led him to Emporia, VA, where he grew up. In 1956 he joined the Army as a paratrooper in the esteemed 82nd Airborne Division, serving 9 years in this elite troop trained to face any situation from combat missions to humanitarian relief efforts. He was stationed in Okinawa and was awarded several distinguished medals.

After the army, Gene joined the Department of Corrections as a security guard and worked his way up to being the Chief of Security of the Mecklenburg Correctional Center. He later moved on to become Group Manager for the VA Correctional Enterprises, where he retired after serving the corrections industry for 33 years.

In 1997 Gene became an active member of St. Augustine Catholic Church in North Chesterfield, VA, as well as the fraternal Knights of Columbus Council (KCC). Within the KCC, he served in key roles as Grand Knight and Navigator where he lived out his principles of charity, fraternity, and patriotism by tirelessly caring for the homeless, veterans, and disabled.

Gene is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Catherine Zimmerman; his son, Rodney Zimmerman; daughter Cheryl Doyle (Keith); sister Judy Ball; brother Larry Zimmerman (Carol); grandsons William Doyle and Nicholas Doyle (Kenya); great-grandsons Mason Doyle and Myles Doyle; stepsons John Schurman (Jennie) and Brad Schurman (Nikki); and many nieces and nephews.

A devoted Catholic, Gene’s compassion extended beyond family. Prior to his illness, he worked tirelessly to ensure those less fortunate had access to food and other life’s necessities – a testament to his selflessness.

There will be a Celebration of Life Mass on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 11 a.m. at St. Augustine Catholic Church in North Chesterfield, VA, followed by a reception at the church hall. At a later time, a private interment of ashes will take place at Amelia Veterans Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of choice in his honor.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.