FREDERICA - A. Gene Short, of Frederica, died on Saturday, Oct. 22, at his home. He was 78. Mr. Short was born May 5, 1933, in Smyrna, the son of the late Arthur N. and Kathryn Short. He retired in 1996 after 63 years of farming. He was also a Realtor for many years primarily with Bob Moore Realty. Gene served in the National Guard. He was active in Asbury United Methodist Church and Smyrna Lions Club. He is survived by four daughters, Karen E.S. Chrisler and her husband Bobby of Dover, Kathryn L. Banks and her husband David of Newark, Cynthia J.S. Kulhanek of Smyrna, and F. Lynn Izzo and her husband Michael of Newark; 12 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his first wife, Elizabeth R. Campbell of Smyrna. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Oct. 27, 2011, at 5 p.m. in the Faries Funeral Chapel, located at 29 S. Main St., Smyrna, where friends may call at 4 p.m. Burial will be held privately in Odd Fellows Cemetery in Smyrna on Friday, Oct. 28, 2011. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to their favorite charity. Condolence letters may be sent by visiting www.fariesfuneralhome.com.