Gene grew up in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina. He graduated with a degree in education from Appalachian State University and later moved to Florida and received his Master’s in Education from Florida State University. In Brevard County, he became the first principal at Audubon Elementary School, then spent several years at Pineda Elementary School, and completed his career as principal at Tropical Elementary School. He was so proud of each of these appointments and honored to be working in the field of education. He was passionate about getting the very best teachers and faculty for each school he worked at, and, after retirement, he loved meeting with them at the once-a-month retirement luncheons.

Everyone who knew him also knew of his passion for sports, especially baseball. He arranged baseball trips with many friends and family each year as many times as he could. He was always so excited to collect sports memorabilia on his trips and loved to share treasures with others. He was a Little League coach when he was in high school and, last month, as his health was failing, he chose to donate much of his vast collection to Rockledge Little League in order for them to raise money for needed supplies. This made him very happy as to his joy of children learning about baseball and his experiences being a Little League coach (If you would like to contribute in his name, the address is Rockledge Little League, PO Box 560191, Rockledge, FL 32955).

Gene had a strong faith in God and loved positive thinking. He loved Joel Osteen sermons on tv each Sunday and drives on the River Road along the scenic Indian River. His favorite quote was “It was a Meant-to-be moment” or a “God Wink” and he loved to share stories of these. He also loved to tell stories of his favorite experiences and interactions with sports stars he met on his travels and growing up in his small country town in North Carolina. Gene lived life generously and fully in every way --- and always knew he was blessed.

Gene was married to our mom, Bobbie Ann for 60 years before she passed on July 3, 2022. He loved telling everyone about her extraordinary gifts of love, patience, and caring that she shared with family and everyone she met. Laura and I were with dad as much as possible and able to tell him how very blessed we were to have him as our dad and that his influence will forever remain with us and our families. He loved being “Granpa” to Ben, Mollie, Kaitlyn, Jonathan, and Matthew, as well as being “Great Granpa” to Grace, Cooper, and Emma. Finally, he was so grateful for the love of his many friends and time spent with him.

Gene’s family would like to express their love and gratitude to the caregivers and staff at Autumn House and to the staff and volunteers of St. Francis Reflections hospice team. At his request, a private cremation will occur with family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to Rockledge Little League (address above), autumnhouseflorida.com or ReflectionsLSC.org.