A man of many talents, Gene was both a successful football coach and a respected school administrator. After graduating from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio and earning his Master of Education from Our Lady of the Lake University, Gene began his remarkable career. As a defensive line and special teams coach on the staff at Robert E. Lee High School under Coach John Ferrara, he contributed to an extraordinary record of 65 wins and only 9 losses over six years. This included four district championships, one regional finalist, one state semi-finalist, one state finalist, and a State AAAA championship. Gene was a head coach and teacher at St. Gerard High School, coach/teacher at Antonian, John Marshall, Uvalde and MacArthur High Schools. He assisted in introducing and developing American football at the University of Mexico, Poly Tech University and private high schools in Mexico City. Gene served several years on Henry Frnka’s staff in producing and editing an annual football clinic notebook. Proceeds went to the development of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Gene’s leadership extended beyond the football field. He served as Assistant Principal at Roosevelt High School and as Principal at Center School in the North East ISD. Later, as Assistant Director for Campus Support Services, Gene supervised the maintenance of over six million square feet of schools and facilities in NEISD before retiring in 2000. His dedication to education and the well-being of students made a lasting impact on the community.

In his later years, Gene found joy in wood carving as a member of the Alamo Area Wood Carving Club. He cherished the fellowship of the club and took pride in his craft. Staying connected with former students, athletes, coaching colleagues, and work associates brought him great happiness, showcasing his unwavering commitment to meaningful relationships. He would also greatly enjoy spending time in the town of Bandera working and relaxing at the family property.

Gene is survived by his wife of 64 years, Margie, his daughters, Nancy Cox and Judy Feese, his grandchildren, David Cox (and wife Anna), Emily Feese, and Jason Cox, son-in-laws Rob Cox and Troy Feese and sister Dorothy Larry. He was preceded in death by his mother Lucille and Dan Qualls, brother Danny Qualls, and sisters Susan Monsalvo and Mary Ann Bruce. He was a wonderful Husband, Dad, and G-Dad. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

The family will receive friends and guests from 6:00 – 7:00 P.M. at Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2102 N. Loop 1604 E, San Antonio, Texas; a Prayer Service will immediately follow at the chapel.

The Rosary will take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 311 7th Street, Bandera, Texas; Funeral Services will take place at the church at 11:00 A.M..

Interment will follow at Bandera Cemetery, 450 Highway 173 North, Bandera, Texas.