Gene was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Gene saw the best in everyone and was an inspiration to each person who knew him.
Gene was born March 29, 1942, in Abbeville, South Carolina to the late Sterling and Sara Hall. Growing up in Greer, he developed tenacity and refined his leadership abilities through excellence in academics and athletics. Gene began his higher education at Spartanburg Methodist College and earned a BA in Psychology from Erskine College in 1964. Upon graduating, Gene married his college sweetheart, Sarah Lynn Mitchum on May 16, 1964, and during their 52 years together they raised their daughter Jessika Guzman.
Gene was a Vietnam Veteran and served as an Infantry Unit Commander from August 31, 1969 - August 28, 1970. While serving in US Army he earned numerous medals and commendations including two Bronze Stars for meritorious service and achievement. Upon completing his military service, Gene received his master’s degree of Public Health Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. During his career, Gene served as the President of McLeod Addictive Disease center for 35 years and throughout his tenure he was a trusted partner, leader, and mentor. In 2015, The North Carolina Foundation for Alcohol and Drug Studies (NCFADS), presented him with its lifetime achievement award for his exemplary leadership, dedication, and commitment to the addiction profession in North Carolina and for his efforts leading the NCFADS Board in its early development. Following his retirement, The “S. Eugene Hall Training Center" was renamed, in his honor, to recognize his contributions to the McLeod Center’s mission. Gene’s commitment to helping people recover has improved the lives of thousands of individuals battling with the disease of addiction. He will be remembered as a leader who empowered everyone with whom he worked and an inspiration to his family and friends.
Gene was a loving father and took immense pride in his daughter Jessika Guzman. He adored his two granddaughters, AnnaJean and EllaRose Guzman. Gene had a passion for playing golf; enjoyed reading and gardening; and was an avid South Carolina Gamecock fan and supporter. Gene was a confidant to his daughter, friends, and family and was well known for his compassion, calm demeanor, intelligence, witty sense of humor, and loyalty. Gene left a footprint on this world with his life, legacy, and his passion for helping others.
Gene was preceded in death by his wife Lynn, and his parents, Sterling and Sara. He is survived by his daughter, Jessika, his granddaughters, AnnaJean and EllaRose, his brother Wayne, his sister, Lynda, and a number of nieces and nephews.
Service to celebrate Gene’s life will be held Saturday, December 3, 2022, at 11:00 am at McEwen Funeral Service-Pineville Chapel, 10500 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28210, followed by a visitation at 12:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial gifts to Spartanburg Methodist College, Attn: Development Department, 1000 Powell Mill Road, Spartanburg SC 29301.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.McEwenPinevilleChapel.com for the Hall family.
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